How often have you contemplated what the engaged undergraduate can really accomplish? Have you tried integrating the research process into the courses you teach? Could you get students more excited about learning by developing a curriculum in which they discover new knowledge as part of the course experience?
What kind of pride might your students feel if they shared the knowledge generated in your class at the Undergraduate Research Symposium sponsored by the Honors College and held annually in Perry Library? Have you thought about how enjoyable it would be for you as the teacher to practice research — as defined by your discipline — in the classroom?
Reflect on all these questions as you explore how a Course-based Undergraduate Research approach can change the learning process inside your classroom and infuse it with positive energy.
In February, the Office of Academic Affairs funded a grant initiative that was then launched by the Center for Faculty Development. Called CURE or Course-based Undergraduate Research, the pilot program is designed to help faculty embed the research process into their courses.
Course-based Undergraduate Research is a high-impact practice that involves students making discoveries in their classroom. Students problem-solve and communicate with each other and ultimately with a larger audience beyond the classroom. Students can engage in a number of research practices depending on the discipline, but the work generated contributes to disciplinary knowledge. A major component of a course-based research experience is novel discovery.
The Provost's Office is offering $1,000 per college so that one project from each college will be funded. Applications are due on April 12, 2019, by 5 p.m. and should be sent to Dr. Annette Finley-Croswhite at cfd@odu.edu. Notification of successful applicants will be made by the end of April. All funds must be spent by June 15, 2019; however, the courses may be taught in summer or fall of 2019.
For more information, the RFP and the submittal forms, please visit the "Grant Opportunities" tab on the Center for Faculty Development website: /facultydevelopment/grant-opportunities.
Don't hesitate to call or write Dr. Finley-Croswhite if you have questions.