Quick-Start Guide to Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs)
Quick-Start Guide to Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs)
Overview of CUREs
Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs) integrate authentic research into the classroom, allowing entire cohorts—not just a select few—to engage in discovery. Unlike traditional labs with predetermined outcomes, CUREs involve questions with unknown answers, fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and scientific identity. Research shows CUREs improve student retention, deepen disciplinary understanding, and expand access to high-impact practices, especially for underrepresented groups. For faculty, CUREs align teaching with scholarship and can generate publishable data while enriching the curriculum.
Effective CURE design starts with a clear, feasible research question that matters beyond the classroom. The goal is to balance authenticity with practicality—students should experience real research processes without overwhelming logistical demands. A well-designed CURE includes structured phases, clear learning outcomes, and opportunities for iteration and collaboration. For more detailed information and guidance on how to implement CUREs the following resource provides a great overview: A CURE for everyone: A guide to implementing Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences.
The Characteristics of Excellence in Undergraduate Research (COEUR) summarize best practices that support and sustain CUREs. This resource on Undergraduate Research Journals and Opportunities can help support student research.
- Start small: Choose a question aligned with your expertise or use a networked CURE model (e.g., SEA-PHAGES, GEP).
- Define outcomes: Include research skills, disciplinary knowledge, and communication.
- Plan phases: Orientation → methods training → data collection → analysis → dissemination.
- Integrate ethics: Add micro-lessons on responsible conduct of research (RCR).
- Use open resources: Adapt protocols and rubrics from platforms like CUREnet or OSU Pressbook.
Implementing and Mentoring
Overview:
Mentoring is the cornerstone of successful CUREs. Students often enter with varied skills and confidence levels, so structured support ensures equitable participation and meaningful learning. Implementation requires scaffolding, timely feedback, and inclusive practices that empower students as co-creators of knowledge.
Guidance for Instructors:
- Build a mentoring team: Faculty, TAs, and peer mentors with defined roles.
- Schedule checkpoints: Weekly progress reviews and troubleshooting sessions.
- Foster collaboration: Assign team roles (e.g., data lead, literature lead) and set norms early.
- Promote inclusivity: Use responsive mentoring strategies and provide just-in-time tutorials.
- Encourage reflection: Incorporate short reflective prompts on process and challenges.
Overview:
Assessment validates learning and informs continuous improvement, while sustainability ensures CUREs become a lasting part of your curriculum. Use evidence-based tools to measure outcomes and document impact for departmental or institutional support. Long-term success depends on right-sizing scope, leveraging resources, and aligning with institutional priorities.
Guidance for Instructors:
- Use validated tools and approaches: Assessment toolkits and instruments
- Collect artifacts: Research plans, notebooks, posters, and data packages.
- Close the loop: Reflect with students and revise for the next iteration.
- Seek support: Align with campus initiatives (e.g., HIPs, undergraduate research offices) and explore external funding (NSF IUSE).
- Scale gradually: Start with one section or module before expanding.