An Introductory Module and Experiments To Improve the Graphing Skills of Non-Science Majors

Graphing allows for the succinct communication of scientific data and is therefore a critical learning objective in science curricula. Unfortunately, many students, particularly non-science majors, lack the necessary skills to prepare and interpret graphs. Many students are able to interpolate data...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of microbiology & biology education 2019, Vol.20 (3)
Main Authors: Violin, Christy R, Forster, Brian M
Format: Article
Language:English
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Summary:Graphing allows for the succinct communication of scientific data and is therefore a critical learning objective in science curricula. Unfortunately, many students, particularly non-science majors, lack the necessary skills to prepare and interpret graphs. Many students are able to interpolate data and observe general trends but demonstrate only a cursory ability to contextualize their results. In this paper, we suggest an introductory module and graphing lessons to improve the quantitative skills of non-science majors. In each of these lessons, students go through four phases of data analysis: (a) collection; (b) graphing; (c) interpolation/trend detection (reading), and (d) determining the underlying mechanism resulting in the trends they observe (interpretation). By employing these activities, we are continuing to improve the scientific literacy of students.
ISSN:1935-7877
1935-7885
DOI:10.1128/jmbe.v20i3.1863