Using the Case Study/Critical Reader (CSCR) Tool to Teach Students Key Aspects of Scientific Writing

 

Julie Collins, Kerry Martin, & Jean Heitz

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2015, Volume 36

Abstract

During the Independent Project (IP), a cornerstone of Introductory Biology 152, students conduct and communicate scientific research. Some work in labs on campus, others complete a meta-analysis of an open question in the literature. To address common student misconceptions about both forms of this project, we developed several activities using Case Study/Critical Reader (CSCR), a web-based authoring tool created at the UW-Madison. These activities focus on how to perform a strong analysis and effective literature research. Piloting these activities in Fall 2013, we were able to address diverse learning needs, provide individualized feedback, and even train our TAs more effectively.

Keywords:  science writing, Meta-analysis, critical reading

University of Oregon (2014)