Authentic Research through Collaborative Learning

Undergraduate research opportunities provide students with authentic learning experiences that can inspire careers in STEM. Yet, systemic barriers have made it more difficult for certain students to participate and benefit from such experiences. The ARC-Learn program (a collaboration between Oregon State University STEM Research Center and the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences) aims to train the next generation of creative and diverse scientists to solve critical environmental challenges in polar regions. Most importantly, the program disrupts traditional paradigms by establishing long-term research experiences for students, eliminating the requirement for field work, and fostering faculty-student mentorship that emphasizes inclusivity.

Participating students engage for 20 months with a diverse team of students and faculty to learn about polar science, while faculty receive training on evidence-based inclusive mentoring. Whether you are current student or mentor, or are interested in becoming involved, learn more about ARC-Learn below.