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Program framework

CURE Logic Model

A theory of change for Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences at Arapahoe Community College, from resources to impact.

Inputs

What we start with

This logic model traces the pathway from resources and activities, through measurable outputs, to meaningful short- and long-term outcomes.

Faculty & staff

  • 60 faculty
  • 6 lab-prep personnel
  • 6–15 tutors

STEM STARS program

  • Student trainers
  • Research advisors

Advisory task force

  • Curriculum guidance
  • Lab supplies
  • Research resources
  • Assessment tools

Existing curriculum

  • Current lab activities
  • Course materials
  • Assessment frameworks
Activities

What we do

Professional development

  • Faculty training sessions
  • Lab instructor workshops
  • Tutor preparation

Curriculum development

  • Research-based labs
  • Assessment tools
  • Student guides
  • Resource library

Research integration

  • Replace traditional labs
  • Implement research projects
  • Organize symposiums
  • Document outcomes

Recruitment & training

  • Cross-disciplinary outreach
  • Mentorship programs
  • Resource sharing
  • Collaborative planning

Assessment & evaluation

  • Pre/post surveys
  • Performance tracking
  • Outcome measurement
  • Impact analysis
Outputs

What we produce

Trained faculty & staff

  • Completed PD
  • 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
  • Portfolios

Assessment data

  • Survey results
  • Performance metrics
  • Program impacts
  • Success indicators
Outcomes

What changes

Short-term outcomes

  • Increased faculty confidence
  • Improved student engagement
  • Enhanced research skills
  • Better course completion
  • Stronger STEM interest

Long-term outcomes

  • Higher retention rates
  • Increased STEM transfers
  • Greater diversity in STEM
  • Sustainable CURE integration
  • Improved educational quality
Impact

Where it leads

Through systematic implementation of Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences, we anticipate transforming STEM education at Arapahoe Community College, improving individual student outcomes and creating a sustainable model for research integration that can scale across disciplines and institutions.