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Research-Based Curricula coursebooks

Research-Based Curricula coursebooks or 'RBCs' are digital subject resources for Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 students, each written by a PhD researcher and expert in that topic.

Practice university-style study whilst learning new and fascinating things about a subject of your choice! Completing an RBC can be mentioned in UCAS applications and shows interest in your subject.

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Use the 'SEARCH' bar to filter by subject, Key Stage, or title. Remember to 'RESET' your search each time!

University of Reading

What can mathematics do to give aviation a greener future?

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Cathie Wells, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 5
Maths
Geography
University of Reading

Literary legacy: From romanticism to Beckett

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Emma Keanie, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 5
English Literature
University of Reading

What's the matter with matter?

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Abigail Fletcher, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 4
Art
Design
University of Cambridge

What might your future school look like?

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by David Baker, a researcher at the University of Cambridge.

Key Stage 5
Art
Design
Technology
University of Cambridge

Your Wellbeing and Social Media

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Aisha Sobey, a researcher at the University of Cambridge.

Key Stage 5
Computer Science
Politics
Technology
HeppSY+

Sociological Perspectives on Migrant Parents' Experience

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Ruvimbo Machaka, a researcher at Sheffield Hallam University.

Key Stage 5
Geography
Sociology
Make Happen

How can we help US and UK gang members leave gangs?

Social Sciences

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Kerry Preston.

Key Stage 5
Media
Sociology
Hello Future

Health Inequalities: The Theory of Everything

Social Sciences

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Rachel Earnshaw, a researcher at Lancaster University.

Key Stage 5
Geography
Sociology
University of Cambridge

The Psychology behind Mythology

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Emily Rushton, a researcher at the University of Cambridge.

Key Stage 5
Classics
Latin
Psychology
Make Happen

Time in Children's Literature

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Soma Das, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 5
English Literature
Hello Future

Decision Making in Business

Social Sciences

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Anna Sroginis, a researcher at Lancaster University.

Key Stage 5
Business Studies
Make Happen

Fighting in the Fields

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Tamisan Latherow, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 5
Geography
Politics
History
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About RBC coursebooks

What are RBC coursebooks?

Subject tutorial packs (PDF) - students complete either with teacher guidance or on their own  
Six 1-hour modules and a final reflection activity in each
Supports attainment and subject understanding
Develops critical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis and writing skills, and more!

Why is it great for students to complete an RBC coursebook?

Demonstrate your subject interest and dedication for university applications
Talk about completing a unique RBC coursebook in your UCAS applications
Similar to the work required for a university course or module - practice uni-style learning
Gain 'stretch' experience and build independent research and learning skills
Find out which subjects you do and don't like at a university level!

Who are they for?

Key Stage 3, 4 or 5 students depending on the pack
Teachers can take lesson and activity ideas from these, or use as extracurricular assignments
Years 10 & 11 in gaining stretch and prepare for A-level style learning
Years 12 & 13 to build expertise and unique subject experience universities will be looking for
Inspiration or precursor for any students completing an EPQ (extended-project qualification)

Please note that many of the tutorial packs cover more than one school subject, for example, geography and statistics together. This is called interdisciplinary study and it is very common at university. Being able to demonstrate that you have engaged with 'interdisciplinary' study is likely to strengthen your UCAS application.

Need help or want to explore how your university can be apart of the Research-Based Curricula programme? 

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