A scalable approach to undergraduate research in physics

Abstract

Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) increase students' access to research. This lesson plan describes an interdisciplinary CURE developed to be able to involve over 60 students per semester in original research using data from large particle physics experiments and telescopes, although the methods described can easily be adopted by other areas of data science. Students are divided into research teams of four, which greatly leverages the instruction time needed for mentoring, while increasing research productivity by creating accountability amongst the students. This CURE provides a strong framework, which minimizes barriers that students may perceive. This helps increase the number of students that benefit from a research opportunity while providing guidance and certainty. Through this CURE, students can engage in original research with the potential for publication-quality results, develop communication skills in various modes, and gain confidence in their performance as a scientist.