1. Research Problem
In one sentence, describe the problem that is the focus of your classroom research project about student learning: Debate as to whether case studies, as compared to traditional lecture, can promote content learning and application skills in microbiology classes.

2. Research Question What is your research question?
Does the use of case studies increase student knowledge and application of core concepts in Microbiology?

3. Research Methods My primary research methods include:
Pretest before the unit
Knowledge
Application
Exam (post instructional unit)
How will I collect these data?
In class
Multiple choice
Short Answer
My strategy to analyze these data will be:
Compare MC percentage correct
Noncase – knowledge/application
Case – knowledge/application
Compare SA percentage correct

4. Alignment of Research Question and Methods
Demonstrate how your research methods and question align.
Research methods directly measure learning gains for content and application for non-case and case related course content post lecture and case application.

5. Progress since the Institute
Successfully obtained IRB approval – this took 5 months!!!
Drafted a 7 page research protocol for the IRB
Obtained CITI certification
Created consent forms
Created all questions for pre and post test assessments