I was fortunate to be able to implement what is known in the parlance as a "course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE)" this spring in my upper-division plant biology class. Students added more than 275 research-grade observations to iNaturalist, contributed to a restoration research project by planting seedlings in a number of experimental plots, and carried out a significant field- and laboratory-based project collecting data on leaf thermal tolerances among native plant species in our coastal scrub community. We had an incredible partner in this endeavor in the form of Irvine Ranch Conservancy, which provided tremendous access, mentorship, and truly made it a memorable and deeply meaningful experience for our students. The work is described in a new article in the Fullerton Observer.
RSS Feed
