Learning Goals

Learning Objectives for Undergraduate Research at MU

  1. Develop a research question or project objective informed by prior scholarly work in the discipline that has the potential to advance knowledge; 
  2. Apply skills and methods appropriate to the discipline such as generating data or gathering data, producing creative work, utilizing existing data sources, and engaging in inquiry; 
  3. Analyze/evaluate project results according to standards of the discipline, drawing conclusions, and identifying areas for future study;
  4. Communicate results/outcome of the project and receive feedback on both the quality of the scholarly work and the quality of the communication;  
  5. Identify, evaluate, synthesize, and cite scholarly literature, relevant data and reports, or creative work;
  6. Develop research and creative skills and methods appropriate to the discipline, including analytical skills and communication skills;
  7. Identify questionable research practices and complete Research Ethics & Compliance Training appropriate to the discipline; 
  8. Engage in self- reflection to produce insight into learning and growth, professional identity, and implications of the work.

Assessment Methods

EvaluateUR, developed with funding from the NSF, can be used as a method of assessing student growth for both independent faculty mentored research experiences and course based undergraduate research (CURE). For more information, visit the EvaluateUR website and contact Linda Blockus for access information for MU faculty. The framework of EvaluateUR has ten core student outcomes:

  • Communication
  • Creativity
  • Autonomy
  • Ability to Deal with Obstacles
  • Intellectual Development
  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
  • Practice and Process of Inquiry
  • Nature of Disciplinary Knowledge
  • Content Knowledge and Methods
  • Ethical Conduct

Some versions of EvaluateUR also include Career Goals and Teamwork.

Rubrics developed at MU for assessing written abstracts and presentations can be downloaded, along with additional resources on writing abstracts. The Humanities Rubric is crafted for Applied Design, Artistic Expression, and Humanities presentations, including oral presentations and posters. The STEM Rubric is designed for Behavioral/Social Sciences, Engineering, Life Sciences, Physical & Mathematical Sciences, and Informatics presentations.

Other sources for assessment rubrics include AAC&U’s Value Rubrics and NACE Career Competency Rubrics (contact the MU Career Center).