Meeting Abstract

P3-54   -   CURE in a Box: A course-based undergraduate research experience for introductory biology majors Mineo , PM*; Arriola , PE; Bennett, KF; Marsh, TL; Raimondi, SL; Shaffer, CL; Elmhurst University Patrick.Mineo@Elmhurst.edu

The Department of Biology at Elmhurst University revised the introductory biology sequence for first-year students incorporating the recommendations of Vision and Change in Undergraduate Biology Education (AAAS, 2011). To develop student competence in analytical abilities, laboratory skills, and the process of science, we designed a course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) in the laboratory sections for the course. However, the move to online instruction necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic left us unable to deliver the CURE experience that we developed, requiring us to develop a new CURE that students could complete at home as a part of a synchronous online laboratory class. We developed a revised CURE that allowed students to execute a guided real-time wet-lab research project investigating the evolution of resistance to common household cleaners in yeast using a take-home kit. Here, we present examples of student data from the lab as well as preliminary assessment of student learning outcomes. This lab can also be adapted as an affordable CURE experience for a traditional in-person course providing flexibility in lab scheduling or accessibility for students with special needs.