Michele R Tennant1, Mary Edwards, Michael M Miyamoto. 1. Biomedical and Health Information Services, Health Science Center Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610-0206, USA. tennantm@ufl.edu
Abstract
QUESTION: How can the library-based research project of a genetics course be reinvigorated and made sustainable without sacrificing educational integrity? SETTING: The University of Florida's Health Science Center Library provides the case study. METHODS: Since 1996, the librarian has codeveloped, supported, and graded all components of the project. In 2009, the project evolved from a single-authored paper to a group-work poster, with graded presentations hosted by the library. In 2010, students were surveyed regarding class enhancements. RESULTS: Responses indicated a preference for collaborative work and the poster format and suggested the changes facilitated learning. Instructors reported that the poster format more clearly documented students' understanding of genetics. CONCLUSION: Results suggest project enhancements contributed to greater appreciation, understanding, and application of classroom material and offered a unique and authentic learning experience, without compromising educational integrity. The library benefitted through increased visibility as a partner in the educational mission and development of a sustainable instructional collaboration.
QUESTION: How can the library-based research project of a genetics course be reinvigorated and made sustainable without sacrificing educational integrity? SETTING: The University of Florida's Health Science Center Library provides the case study. METHODS: Since 1996, the librarian has codeveloped, supported, and graded all components of the project. In 2009, the project evolved from a single-authored paper to a group-work poster, with graded presentations hosted by the library. In 2010, students were surveyed regarding class enhancements. RESULTS: Responses indicated a preference for collaborative work and the poster format and suggested the changes facilitated learning. Instructors reported that the poster format more clearly documented students' understanding of genetics. CONCLUSION: Results suggest project enhancements contributed to greater appreciation, understanding, and application of classroom material and offered a unique and authentic learning experience, without compromising educational integrity. The library benefitted through increased visibility as a partner in the educational mission and development of a sustainable instructional collaboration.
Authors: Teri A Manolio; Francis S Collins; Nancy J Cox; David B Goldstein; Lucia A Hindorff; David J Hunter; Mark I McCarthy; Erin M Ramos; Lon R Cardon; Aravinda Chakravarti; Judy H Cho; Alan E Guttmacher; Augustine Kong; Leonid Kruglyak; Elaine Mardis; Charles N Rotimi; Montgomery Slatkin; David Valle; Alice S Whittemore; Michael Boehnke; Andrew G Clark; Evan E Eichler; Greg Gibson; Jonathan L Haines; Trudy F C Mackay; Steven A McCarroll; Peter M Visscher Journal: Nature Date: 2009-10-08 Impact factor: 49.962