Abstract:

A research process that infuses undergraduate Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) research projects with critical thinking skills activities has been developed and incorporated into our Continuous Undergraduate Research Experience throughout the summer and academic year. The framework for the research process consists of three elements: critical thinking and literature, critical thinking and research and critical thinking and peer review. Each element is based on the thinkers guide library published by the foundation for critical thinking. Challenges associated with the implementation were: the transfer of information from the critical thinking activities to the research environment by the student; and a mechanism to reinforce this process throughout the academic year. These challenges were addressed by introducing the research process to the students using a novel case study that was relevant to all majors the first week of the summer. Students applied the process to their individual research projects over the course of the summer. The novel research process details and academic year activities will be presented.

Keywords:

STEM, undergraduate research, critical thinking.