PREreviews of “Improved science communication and student gains from an undergraduate biomedical research experience”

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Improved science communication and student gains from an undergraduate biomedical research experience

by Donna Ward, Yueh-Ying Han, Christopher Qoyawayma, April Dukes, T. Brooke McClendon, and Michelle L. Manni

Posted: October 20, 2023
Server: bioRxiv
DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.17.561956

Abstract

Summer research experiences expose undergraduate students to biomedical research in a laboratory or clinical setting, but often do not incorporate formal learning on scientific communication. Proper written and oral communication of science is essential to succeed in biomedical fields. This study examined whether participation in a science communication series (SCS) would increase gains in research and written communication abilities among students participated in the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics Summer Research Internship Program. Surveys were administered at the beginning and end of the program to evaluate their summer undergraduate research experience (SURE). Positive personal and professional gains in research and communication skills were identified through participation in both SURE and SCS. Participation in the SCS also significantly improved the quality and presentation of research abstracts. Focused learning in science communication during SUREs would improve undergraduate students’ personal and professional abilities in biomedical research and medicine.

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PREreview by Josie L. Otto et al.

Authored by Josie L. Otto, Abrao Pereira, Kira Matthews, and 2 other authors

Summary and Strengths
Science communication is an essential skill in STEM fields and is often a requirement of Summer Undergraduate Research Experiences (SUREs) in which students present their research projects in written or oral formats. Despite this, opportunities to develop or strengthen…

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PREreviews of Improved science communication and student gains from an undergraduate biomedical research experience

1 PREreview