Using Research to Bridge Gaps and Form Connections in Biology Majors

The presence of CUREs (course-based undergraduate research experiences) have increased in upper-level undergraduate STEM programs over the last decade. The implementation of CUREs is challenging in high-enrollment, lower-level undergraduate courses. The Biology Department at the University of North Florida is currently piloting a course redesign effort to increase scientific inquiry, skills, techniques, and research literacy in a traditional introductory course. The purpose of this poster presentation is to introduce this model to others invested in biology curriculum development. The lecture uses the lens of primary literature to delve into topics such as salt marsh ecology and climate change, radiation and DNA repair in tardigrades, cancer biology, and the gut microbiome. The laboratory portion of the course focuses on essential lab skills and techniques, experimental design, writing, and data analysis. Pre and post assessments, concept inventories, a mini poster session, and group presentation are being used to advance students science identity and retention in STEM. Almost 200 students are currently enrolled in this four-credit course. This is the first course taken by transfer students entering the major. We expect this course to serve as a “bridge” to support our students transitioning to upper-level courses.