U-RISE at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey

NIH RePORTER · NIH · T34 · $403,952 · view on reporter.nih.gov ↗

Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY The U-RISE program at the University of Puerto Rico Cayey (UPR-C) provides research training to i) broaden exposure to biomedical research careers, ii) strengthen science identity, and iii) enhance scientific information literacy, learning, research, and quantitative and computational skills of undergraduate Hispanic students at UPR-C. The U-RISE program will directly impact 24 undergraduate students through a wide range of activities. Five program components have been designed employing evidence-based approaches to provide training to undergraduate students: Research Seminars and Workshops (RSW), Learning and Research Skills (LRS), Undergraduate Research Experiences (URE), Quantitative and Computational skills (QCS), and Evidence- Based Teaching and Mentoring (EBT/EBM). The evaluation of each component will be monitored by an external evaluator working with the activity coordinators, program directors, and an Advisory Committee. In the RSW component, visiting alumni scientists will serve as role models and offer seminars and workshops to all science students at UPR-C to broaden their exposure to biomedical research careers and strengthen their science identity. In the LRS component, 12 sophomore college students will start engaging in research by participating in scientific literature, learning, and laboratory research activities. In the URE component, the trainees will engage more extensively in research by participating in an off-campus research project during the summer (24 students) and an on-campus research experience during the academic year. In the QCS component, the junior/senior students will enhance their skills to analyze and present numerical data, reduce problem complexity, think in terms of computational algorithmics, and automate tasks computationally within the natural sciences. The LRS and QCS educational activities use collaborative learning to accommodate differences in preparation among trainees. The EBT/EBM component will facilitate faculty training in evidence-based teaching and mentoring using Blended Learning Modules in EBT and Lesson Study cycles. In the EBT/EBM component, the fundamental aspects of multiple teaching and learning areas will be explored and implemented over one year. This long-term faculty training program will provide the sustained and lasting efforts required for faculty to change their teaching practices. These five integrated program components of the U-RISE at UPR-Cayey are designed to facilitate the completion of baccalaureate degrees and the transition into and completion of biomedical research-focused higher degree programs.

Key facts

NIH application ID
10811633
Project number
5T34GM145404-02
Recipient
UNIVERSITY OF PR CAYEY UNIVERSITY COLL
Principal Investigator
Wilfredo Resto
Activity code
T34
Funding institute
NIH
Fiscal year
2024
Award amount
$403,952
Award type
5
Project period
2023-04-01 → 2025-03-31