It was 100% like a research experience. We did all of our own lit review, though the basics of the experiments were given to us we made modifications, performed all of the multi-week experiments (there were three), wrote all three manuscripts, and wrote a grant proposal. Two experiments had not been done before.
so, it seems to me like it was a research experience, and it really helped me for doing my thesis the next year. the only qualms i have about listing it is that it was technically a course.
edit: ok, I went for it. If they don't consider it, then they'll disregard.