College Board's AP Research CED

Definition

The College Board's AP Research Course and Exam Description (CED) is a comprehensive document that outlines the curriculum framework, assessment strategies, and expectations for the AP Research course. It serves as a guide for educators and students, detailing the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct independent research and develop critical thinking through the research process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The CED provides a clear framework for the AP Research course, emphasizing skills such as critical thinking, analysis, and effective communication.
2. It includes detailed information on how students can structure their research projects, including the formulation of research questions and methodologies.
3. The CED outlines specific assessment criteria that teachers use to evaluate student work, ensuring consistent grading across different schools.
4. It encourages students to reflect on their own writing and creative processes while engaging with the works of others to enhance their research skills.
5. The document serves as a resource for teachers by providing best practices for teaching research skills and guiding students through their independent projects.

Review Questions

• How does the AP Research CED help students develop their independent research skills?
  • The AP Research CED helps students develop independent research skills by providing a structured framework that guides them through the entire research process. It outlines how to formulate effective research questions, select appropriate methodologies, and analyze data critically. By following the CED's guidelines, students learn to manage their projects independently while honing essential skills such as critical thinking and effective communication.
• In what ways does the AP Research CED promote reflection on one's own writing and creative processes?
  • The AP Research CED promotes reflection on writing and creative processes by encouraging students to document their journey throughout their research projects. It includes prompts for self-assessment and peer feedback, which helps students think critically about their work and learn from their peers. This reflection allows students to identify strengths and areas for improvement, ultimately enhancing their ability to communicate their findings effectively.
• Evaluate how the assessment criteria outlined in the AP Research CED influence the quality of student research projects.
  • The assessment criteria in the AP Research CED play a crucial role in influencing the quality of student research projects by establishing clear expectations for evaluation. These criteria ensure that students focus on developing strong research questions, utilizing appropriate methodologies, and conducting thorough analyses of their data. By adhering to these standards, students are motivated to produce high-quality work that meets or exceeds expectations, ultimately preparing them for further academic pursuits or professional endeavors.

Related terms

Independent Research: A method of inquiry where students design and execute their own research projects, allowing them to explore topics of personal interest and apply research methodologies.

Research Methodology:

The systematic approach used in research to collect, analyze, and interpret data, which includes qualitative and quantitative methods.

Assessment Criteria: The standards used to evaluate student performance in research projects, including the quality of research questions, data analysis, and presentation of findings.