Teaching biology using memoirs of scientists, public health officials, doctors, and patients.

ABSTRACT: In this study, we designed a novel undergraduate biology course centered entirely around reading memoirs of scientists, doctors, patients, and public health officials. Students in the course engaged in active learning and critical thinking-based activities and assessments, including writing analytical papers, delivering scientific presentations, writing personal reflections, performing data analysis, and engaging in group work and class discussions in every class period. The main learning goals of the course were for students to visualize the processes of science and medicine, to understand the interface of science and society, to gain awareness of a variety of career paths, to appreciate the humanity of scientists, and to build skills in critical thinking and scientific communication. We

SUBMITTER: Cheng A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12687631 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature