The purpose of this RCN-UBE incubator project is to create a central online hub for biologists and mathematicians to collaborate to improve students' understanding of quantitative reasoning.

Website Abstract

This project will create a network of people and programs that are creating course-based undergraduate research experiences (CURE) in biology as a means of helping students understand core concepts in biology, develop core scientific competencies, and become active, contributing members of the scientific community.

Abstract

This RCN-UBE project will bring together two communities critical in expanding student access to authentic science experiences: managers of data repositories and education specialists. Representatives from at least 15 organizations will participate in a two-day workshop to discuss strategies for enhancing data discovery and usability, to propose standards for data sharing, and to make recommendations for incorporating authentic data in inquiry-based teaching in biology.

Website Abstract

GCAT-SEEK aims to generate and use massively parallel sequencing data associated with the research interests of network members as the catalyst for producing innovative and broadly disseminated educational modules that offer authentic research experiences to students.

Website Abstract

We are creating a series of learning outcomes and customizable modules that can be incorporated into any first-year or introductory biology sequence that reflects our commitment to scientific literacy for majors and non-majors alike.

Abstract

The Rocky Mountain Sustainability and Science Network (RMSSN) will combine real-world careers and biological education using field experiences to address critical issues for the sustainability and ecological integrity of public lands.

Abstract

A network will be created to develop, test, and distribute assessment tools specific to the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology. These tools will be used to evaluate prior knowledge of students entering biochemistry and molecular biology classes from various backgrounds.

Abstract

A major goal of the network is the participation of this community of faculty, along with research collaborators from other disciplines such as mathematics, in Communication Labs led by experts in biology, and in interdisciplinary communication and communication arts.

Abstract

This RCN-UBE network project seeks to advance the professional development of undergraduate biology faculty to improve teaching and learning of biology consistent with changes in undergraduate biology education that are called for in the Vision and Change report.

Website Abstract

UCINET 6 for Windows is a software package for the analysis of social network data. It was developed by Lin Freeman, Martin Everett and Steve Borgatti. It comes with the NetDraw network visualization tool. 

We are pleased to announce the release of The Power of Partnerships, a new publication from the GK-12 program that provides effective practices for anyone who wants to create a project that partners STEM graduate students with K-12 teachers on a sustained basis. The recommendations come from the GK-12 community–faculty, graduate students, K-12 teachers, program managers, and evaluators. The writing team, 34 participants from GK-12 projects around the US and Puerto Rico, came to Washington, DC in fall 2011 to determine the best way to tell the world about the program and to capture the GK-12 legacy. We encourage you to read the guide and share it with colleagues in your community, the US, and internationally.

This was brought up in the Managing Networks discussion as an example to emulate in creating a management manual for RCNs.

This RCN-UBE project seeks to create a network of educational specialists (who study how students learn) and scientists (who are active researchers) to develop assessment tools that directly measure what students learn about experimental design in biology through undergraduate research and classroom experiences.

Abstract

EREN Mission

To create a model for collaborative ecological research that generates high-quality, publishable data involving undergraduate students and faculty at primarily undergraduate institutions (PUIs).

Website Poster

A reading that introduces students to the basic concepts of phylogenetic trees and provides practice problems.

Data source for the module

A variety of engaging videos, lectures, posters, and classroom activities to teach key concepts related to extinctions past and present.

Natural history museums around the world have been growing beyond display cases and dioramas for years, and many are digitizing their vast collections. These efforts create lasting records of the natural world that might otherwise be inaccessible, unless you know a friendly curator willing to take you behind the scenes. Below are several notable digitization efforts that you can explore, and even contribute to.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES DATA

This paper has a great figure showing the range of lifespans in ants and other closely related species

This paper contains primary data on age-specific fecundity in female baboons. Sam Donovan has provided a useful extension of the module for calculating growth rates and his example has students use chimpanzee data. The exercise can be extended with the addition of this data for baboons as well.