Learn how to participate in MIRIC

Attention all STEM-Related Division Members:

The CUR Biology Division is once again offering our MIRIC (Mentoring the Integration of Research into the Classroom) program for those of you interested in course-based undergraduate research experiences. This community of practice offers the chance for faculty at all career stages and levels of expertise to network, expand their skills, and discuss key issues in CURE development, implementation, and sustainability with peers from across the undergraduate research community. Our work involves group mentoring sessions on the many issues surrounding CURE development and implementation, which occurs through our journal clubs and affinity groups. Our journal clubs provide an opportunity for discussions on seminal and new publications involving CURE development. Our affinity groups are sub-divided for more focused discussions where members work together to curate content on such topics as culturally-responsive CUREs, CUREs for the K-12 arena, and introducing research fundamentals to novice students. For those of you who are interested but haven’t had CURE experience, our “Starting from Scratch” affinity group is available to help you take your first steps.

What is the MIRIC Initiative?

The MIRIC initiative is inspired by the 2011 Vision and Change Report as a way to provide a means for current and future instructors to receive long-term mentorship opportunities in developing and implementing authentic research experiences into the undergraduate classroom. CUREs focus on the integration of authentic research activity into undergraduate coursework in an equitable manner and are another natural extension of Vision and Change. Although CUREs are an outstanding approach for providing the educational benefits of undergraduate research to a maximum number of students, they are difficult for instructors to implement and execute without a significant level of training. The CUR Biology Division features several established faculty with extensive experience in bringing their research work into their coursework. Thus, the division is well-positioned to provide leadership in the STEM education community in the form of training instructors in the art of meaningfully integrating authentic research work into undergraduate coursework in an equitable manner.

How can I participate?

The 2023-24 workshop will begin in September. We would like to get volunteers to serve as mentors or mentees for MIRIC and to spread the word to their colleagues about the program. Visit our site and fill out the appropriate interest form(s).