Scientific writing: Encouraging students to participate in the process in addition to output
Published: 11 October 2024
Personal reflection
The process of rigorously selecting and reviewing scientific literature often happens without much monitoring and support. In a 2500 word extended scientific writing task, students are asked to also submit 2 additional files, an annotated bibliography and reflection table, to keep a record of their process for reflection and encourage transparency, which are characteristics valued in research integrity. The annotated bibliography is a list of sources from at least one scientific database search with a column indicating its usefulness (if any) in the task. If the bibliography is not submitted, a 3 sub-band grade deduction applies to the essay grade. The reflection table enables a structured reflection (1-3 sentences) for each typical aspect associated with this task, e.g. initial reading, database and search criteria, managing references, drafting and editing, managing time and meeting deadline. The reflection is graded on the contracted 22pt scale and contributes 20% to the essay grade.
First published: 11 October 2024
Dr Denise Hough, Prof Barbara Mable & Dr Victoria Paterson
L4 Animal Biology Core Skills