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Improving journal club: Increasing student discussion and understanding of primary literature in molecular biology through the use of dialectical notes
Author(s) -
McDonough Virginia
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
biochemistry and molecular biology education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.34
H-Index - 39
eISSN - 1539-3429
pISSN - 1470-8175
DOI - 10.1002/bmb.20640
Subject(s) - journal club , dialectic , reading (process) , club , class (philosophy) , style (visual arts) , critical reading , critical thinking , mathematics education , psychology , sociology , epistemology , computer science , biology , political science , literature , world wide web , law , art , philosophy , anatomy
Reading the primary literature in a journal club format is an excellent practice where undergraduate students can develop their abilities in experimental data analysis and critical thinking, learn about new ideas and methods, and gain a foothold in scientific discourse. However, students are not familiar with the format, writing style, and depth of knowledge assumed when first reading journal articles. This can inhibit class discussion. To alleviate this problem, the author has instituted the use of dialectical notes in journal club, so that students fully engage the article. This novel use of a strategy borrowed from humanities has improved class participation. © 2012 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology