CURE Logic Model

Theory of Change for Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences
Arapahoe Community College | From Resources to Impact

How CUREs Create Change

This logic model illustrates the pathway from initial resources and activities through measurable outputs to meaningful outcomes. By investing in faculty development and curriculum enhancement, we expect to see improved student engagement, increased STEM retention, and long-term educational success.

Inputs
Faculty & Staff
  • 60 faculty
  • 6 lab prep personnel
  • 6-15 tutors
STEM STARS Program
  • Student Trainers
  • Research Advisors
Advisory Taskforce
  • Curriculum development guidance
  • Lab supplies
  • Research resources
  • Assessment tools
Existing Curriculum
  • Current lab activities
  • Course materials
  • Assessment frameworks
Activities
Professional Development
  • Faculty training sessions
  • Lab instructor workshops
  • Tutor preparation programs
CURE Curriculum Development
  • Create research-based labs
  • Develop assessment tools
  • Design student guides
  • Build resource library
Student Research Integration
  • Replace traditional labs
  • Implement research projects
  • Organize symposiums
  • Document outcomes
Faculty Recruitment & Training
  • Cross-disciplinary outreach
  • Mentorship programs
  • Resource sharing
  • Collaborative planning
Assessment & Evaluation
  • Pre/post surveys
  • Performance tracking
  • Outcome measurement
  • Impact analysis
Outputs
Trained Faculty & Staff
  • Completed professional development
  • Enhanced research skills
  • Improved teaching methods
CURE Resource Library
  • Lab guides
  • Training materials
  • Assessment tools
  • Best practices
Research Projects
  • Wet-lab activities
  • Dry-lab programs
  • Student investigations
  • Data collection
Student Presentations
  • Research symposiums
  • Project showcases
  • Documentation
  • Portfolio development
Assessment Data
  • Survey results
  • Performance metrics
  • Program impacts
  • Success indicators
Outcomes
Short-Term Outcomes
  • Increased faculty confidence
  • Improved student engagement
  • Enhanced research skills
  • Better course completion rates
  • Stronger STEM interest
Long-Term Outcomes
  • Higher retention rates
  • Increased STEM transfers
  • Greater diversity in STEM
  • Sustainable CURE integration
  • Improved educational quality

Expected Impact

Through systematic implementation of Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences, we anticipate transforming STEM education at Arapahoe Community College. This comprehensive approach will not only improve individual student outcomes but also create a sustainable model for research integration that can be scaled across disciplines and institutions.