There is considerable evidence that undergraduate summer research experiences can have a tremendous impact on student interest and skills in science. In addition, professional societies offer important opportunities for professional socialization (see Project Background in Resources below).
Measurable Objectives
The project is designed to have significant impacts on the overall number of underrepresented students participating in biomedicine. It also is designed to have specific measurable impacts on equipping students for further biomedical training. In addition, it impacts their research hosts, increasing their understanding of and skills in working with underrepresented students.
Specific measurable objectives are listed below. Fellows who complete the first year of the research fellowship will be able to:
- Develop and revise a working hypothesis
- Conduct experiments
- Analyze and report data
- Write research summaries in report and abstract forms
- Successfully complete RCR training at their host institution
- Recognize and respond appropriately to common ethical issues in research and publication
- Prepare a scientific poster
- Present data and results orally
- Network effectively with other Fellows and APS committee members
- Explore career options and needed skills
- Reflect on their strengths for and interests in specific careers
- Recognize and utilize the resources provided to trainees by professional societies.
- Describe their interest in NHLBI-related research
Researchers hosting APS STRIDE Fellows in their laboratories will increase their understanding of the training needs of underrepresented students (disadvantaged backgrounds, individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, and individuals with disabilities).
Evaluation Methods
Evaluation of the APS STRIDE Fellows will include both formative (process) evaluation and summative (impact) evaluation. Evaluation methods will include surveys of awardees and research hosts and evaluation of Fellow assignments and written reports. In addition, at both 2- and 4-year intervals following the Fellowship, STRIDE Fellows will be asked to complete another online survey regarding their career choices and current career paths and what role research plays in their career paths.
Undergraduate Research and Professional Societies: Partners in Increasing STEM Diversity (PDF)
Learn why professional societies play an important role in both the training and professional socialization of future STEM professionals.