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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!

Make Happen

Killer Heat Hazards and Us

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Chloe Brimicombe, a researcher at the University of Reading

Key Stage 5
Geography
Hello Future

Does Consciousness Have a Body?

Social Sciences

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Eleni Lorandou, a researcher at Lancaster University.

Key Stage 5
Philosophy
Psychology
HeppSY+

A Cellular and Molecular Understanding of Cells and Disease

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Danielle Lambert, a researcher at the University of Sheffield.

Key Stage 3
Biology
Chemistry
HeppSY+

Wearables in Healthcare

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Murtadha Kareem, a researcher at Sheffield Hallam University.

Key Stage 4
Computer Science
Biology
Medicine
HeppSY+

DNA and Anticancer Drug Discovery

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Stephen Opeyemi Aderinto, a researcher at the University of Sheffield.

Key Stage 3
Biology
Chemistry
Medicine
Make Happen

The impact of Brexit on the UK's Financial system

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Bhumika Godhwani, a researcher at the University of Essex.

Key Stage 5
Business Studies
Economics
Politics
DANCOP

Caffeine in Sport and Exercise: All in the Mind?

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Akbar Shabir, a researcher at the University of Derby.

Key Stage 5
Physical Education
Biology
DANCOP

Machine Learning and the Internet of Things

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Laura Erhan, a researcher at the University of Derby.

Key Stage 4
Computer Science
DANCOP

Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Change

Social Sciences

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Daniel Koomson, a researcher at the University of Derby.

Key Stage 5
Geography
HeppSY+

Reproductive Biology

STEM

The work on this project was generously funded by HeppSY.

Key Stage 4
Biology
Medicine
Hello Future

Dementia and the Ageing Brain

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Meghann Ward, a researcher at Lancaster University.

Key Stage 4
Psychology
Biology
Medicine
HeppSY+

Photochemistry: Making Light Work of Organic Synthesis

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Jack Slater, a researcher at Sheffield Hallam University.

Key Stage 5
Chemistry
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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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