The Five Core Concepts of Biology as a Framework for Promoting Expert-Like Behaviors in Undergraduates Learning How to Read Primary Scientific Literature

Abstract

A growing body of literature shows that primary scientific literature (PSL) is a valuable and useful tool for science, technology, engineering, and math education. We currently have a relatively limited understanding of how skills relating to reading PSL progress through academic careers, i.e., the process by which expertise in reading PSL develops.

From Novice To Expert: An Assessment To Measure Strategies Students Implement While Learning To Read Primary Scientific Literature

“…Most likely, students will need to engage with PSL to a greater extent than simply reading a PDF. Previous examples of increased engagement with PSL include the use of pre-assignments ( 38 ) and corresponding worksheets ( 19 , 39 ). The common student behavior in these 3 examples leading to successful engagement is “generating notes and/or summaries of the content contained within PSL in their own words,” which was also found to be a factor in our Reading Strategies Assessment.…”