The key to successfully integrating the TRN in a developmental sequence across the curriculum is to ensure an holistic approach to designing student learning activities and assessment in each year level. This requires an integrated approach to all aspects of the curriculum.

Through a curriculum mapping matrix (such as that shown in the table below), students’ experiences of research may be traced and deliberately integrated at key points during their study program. A similar matrix may be drawn up for each course or unit of study within the broader degree program.

Some tips for using the curriculum mapping tool:
• adapt the matrix to suit your disciplinary context
• for each curriculum design element, trace when and how links to discipline-based research outcomes, processes, tools and culture are being made for students in your degree program or course
• map the range and developmental sequence of research-related tasks across the year levels
• use the matrix to trace progressive development in scale, complexity and uncertainty of students’ engagement in research projects
• use first year (introductory courses) to induct students into the role of research in their discipline and present knowledge as created, uncertain and contested
• plan a major research project for final year (capstone courses) to help students to integrate their understanding of the role of research in their discipline.