Towards an Asynchronous Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) Framework: A Pilot Case Study in Remote Genomics Research

Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) are strategically designed to advance novel research and integrate future professionals into the scientific community by making relevant discoveries through iteration, communication, and collaboration. With Universities also expanding online undergraduate degree programs that incorporate students who are otherwise unable to attend college, there is a demand for online asynchronous courses to train online students in authentic research, thereby leading to a more skilled, diverse, and inclusive workforce. In this case-study, a pilot CURE leveraging the data-intensive field of genomics was presented as an inclusive opportunity for asynchronous, online students to increase their research experience without having to commit to in person or extra-curricular assignments. This online CURE was designed to investigate the effects of trimming software on high-throughput sequencing data when analyzing sex differential gene expression. Project-based objectives were developed to asynchronously teach (1) the biology behind the research, (2) the coding needed to conduct the research, and (3) professional development tools to communicate research findings. Course effectiveness was evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively using weekly, open-response progress reports and an assessment administered before and after term completion. This pilot study exhibited that students can be successful in remote research experiences that incorporate channels for communication, bespoke and accessible learning materials, and open-response reports to monitor challenges and coping strategies. In this iteration, remote students demonstrated improved learning outcomes and self-reported improved confidence as researchers. In addition, students gained more realistic expectations to self-assess computational research skill-levels and self-identified adaptive coping strategies that are transferrable to future research projects. Overall, this framework for an online asynchronous CURE effectively taught students computational skills to conduct genomics research in addition to professional skills to transition to and thrive in the workforce.