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Lacey MM, Efthimiou G. A guide to pedagogical research for scientists from a biological sciences background. Access Microbiol 2022; 4:acmi000416. [PMID: 36133175 PMCID: PMC9484665 DOI: 10.1099/acmi.0.000416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
How we teach science and engage with the public, particularly in fast moving subjects such as microbiology, are constantly being reflected upon, improved and innovated. This has led to a significant increase of pedagogy publications by microbiology educators in higher education that have had a positive impact on teaching quality, student retention, progression and course satisfaction as well as how science is communicated with the public. In this paper we describe the different types of pedagogical manuscripts that biological scientists could write and the benefits that derive from doing so. We provide a glossary of terms often seen in educational literature. Project design and qualitative and quantitative research methodologies are discussed, highlighting ethical and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) considerations. Suggestions are made regarding how to network with colleagues who are also keen on writing pedagogical papers as well as examples of good practice. Lastly, a handy how-to-start guide aims to help with first steps. We hope that this paper will be a useful survival manual for colleagues who wish to engage in exciting pedagogical research in the field of microbiology and the broader biological sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M. Lacey
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Howard Street, Sheffield, UK
| | - Georgios Efthimiou
- Department of Biomedical and Forensic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hardy Building, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, UK
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2
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Haenssgen MJ, Charoenboon N, Thavethanutthanawin P, Wibunjak K. Tales of treatment and new perspectives for global health research on antimicrobial resistance. MEDICAL HUMANITIES 2021; 47:e10. [PMID: 32948667 PMCID: PMC8639946 DOI: 10.1136/medhum-2020-011894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Global health champions modernism and biomedical knowledge but tends to neglect knowledge, beliefs and identities of rural communities in low-income and middle-income countries. The topic of antimicrobial resistance represents these common challenges, wherein the growing emphasis on public engagement offers a yet underdeveloped opportunity to generate perspectives and forms of knowledge that are not typically incorporated into research and policy. The medical humanities as an interdisciplinary approach to illness and health behaviour play a central role in cultivating this potential-in particular, through the field's emphasis on phenomenological and intersubjective approaches to knowledge generation and its interest in dialogue between medicine, the humanities and the broader public.We present a case study of public engagement that incorporates three medical humanities methods: participatory co-production, photographic storytelling and dialogue between researchers and the public. Situated in the context of northern Thailand, we explore subcases on co-production workshops with villagers, tales of treatment shared by traditional healers and dialogue surrounding artistic display in an international photo exhibition. Our starting assumption for the case study analysis was that co-produced local inputs can (and should) broaden the understanding of the sociocultural context of antimicrobial resistance.Our case study illustrates the potential of medical humanities methods in public engagement to foreground cultural knowledge, personal experience and 'lay' sensemaking surrounding health systems and healing (including medicine use). Among others, the engagement activities enabled us to formulate and test locally grounded hypotheses, gain new insights into the social configuration of treatment seeking and reflect on the relationship between traditional healing and modern medicine in the context of antimicrobial resistance. We conclude that medical-humanities-informed forms of public engagement should become a standard component of global health research, but they require extensive evaluation to assess benefits and risks comprehensively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco J Haenssgen
- Global Sustainable Development, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Institute of Advanced Study, University of Warwick, Coventry, West Midlands, UK
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Kpokiri EE, John R, Wu D, Fongwen N, Budak JZ, Chang CC, Ong JJ, Tucker JD. Crowdsourcing to develop open-access learning resources on antimicrobial resistance. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:914. [PMID: 34488673 PMCID: PMC8419975 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06628-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant threat to global public health. Many medical curricula have limited clinical cases and materials focused on AMR, yet enhanced AMR education and training are needed to support antimicrobial stewardship programmes. We used crowdsourcing methods to develop open-access, learner-centred AMR resources. Crowdsourcing is the process of having a large group, including experts and non-experts, solve a problem and then share solutions with the public. Methods We organised a global crowdsourcing contest soliciting AMR-related multiple-choice questions, infographics, and images. First, we convened a diverse steering committee group to finalise a call for entries. Second, we launched the contest and disseminated the call for entries using social media, blog posts, email, and an in-person event. Partner institutions included two digital healthcare platforms: Figure 1® and Ding Xiang Yuan. Both organizations serve as online communities for healthcare specialists and professionals to report and comment on clinical information. At the end of the call, solicited entries were screened for eligibility and judged on merit and relevance to AMR learning and education. Exceptional entries were recognised, awarded prizes, and further reviewed for sharing with the public via open-access platforms. Results We received 59 entries from nine countries. These included 54 multiple-choice questions, four infographics, and one image. Eligible entries (n = 56) were reviewed and assigned a score on a 1–10 scale. Eight entries received mean scores greater than 6.0 and were selected as finalists. The eight finalist entries consisted of three infographics and five multiple-choice questions. They were disseminated through open-access publications and online medical communities. Although we launched a global call, we relied heavily on medical student groups and the entries received were not entirely globally representative. Conclusions We demonstrate that crowdsourcing challenge contests can be used to identify infectious disease teaching materials. Medical educators and curriculum developers can adapt this method to solicit additional teaching content for medical students. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-021-06628-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eneyi E Kpokiri
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St., Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
| | - Randall John
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Dan Wu
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St., Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Noah Fongwen
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St., Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Jehan Z Budak
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Christina C Chang
- Partners ID Images, Department of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jason J Ong
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St., Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St., Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.,Social Entrepreneurship To Spur Health (SESH), Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Verran J. Using fiction to engage audiences with infectious disease: the effect of the coronavirus pandemic on participation in the Bad Bugs Bookclub. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2021; 368:6296416. [PMID: 34113987 PMCID: PMC8344436 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnab072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
During Bad Bugs Bookclub meetings, scientists and non-scientists discuss novels in which infectious disease forms part of the plot in order to encourage public understanding of, and engagement with, microbiology. The website presents meeting reports and reading guides for over 70 novels. The aim of this work was to raise awareness of the bookclub and increase website engagement. In 2019, events designed to reach new audiences maintained an increase in page views from the end of 2018 (around 200 per month). In 2020, the coronavirus pandemic forced bookclub meetings online (Zoom). These, with podcasts and some Twitter discussion, increased page views with a peak of 400 per month. Membership increased, and global ‘attendance’ was facilitated. Feelings and observations related to each book and the pandemic were noted in meeting reports. A survey of current and previous bookclub members carried out early in lockdown with the aim of determining the future direction of the bookclub revealed the continuing value of both literary and scientific experiences to members. The bookclub has engaged scientists and non-scientists in meaningful discussion about infectious disease. Reach is modest, but the resource is significant, with potential impact in education and engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Verran
- Corresponding author: Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK. E-mail:
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Duckett CJ, Hargreaves KE, Rawson KM, Allen KE, Forbes S, Rawlinson KE, Shaw H, Lacey M. Nights at the museum: integrated arts and microbiology public engagement events enhance understanding of science whilst increasing community diversity and inclusion. Access Microbiol 2021; 3:000231. [PMID: 34151182 PMCID: PMC8209632 DOI: 10.1099/acmi.0.000231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study uses integrated art and science events to explore a blended approach in improving public understanding of current scientific topics and widening participation within the local community. The events were a Halloween-inspired microbiology-themed series of interactive exhibitions hosted within a national museum as part of an existing series of adult education evenings. A representative sample of 102 mixed methods exit questionnaires, based on determining (i) audience diversity and (ii) understanding of scientific topics, were analysed by qualitative and quantitative approaches, and a post-attendance focus group was carried out to determine longer term impact of the event. Participants were grouped as 'Science', 'Arts', 'Both' or 'Neither', according to their past experience and engagement. These events welcomed more participants from the Arts and Neither subsections hence engaging a group of people who would not usually visit science public engagement events or comparative events hosted in traditional academic settings, highlighting the importance of venue choice in reaching new audiences and widening participation. An increase in perceived understanding of science was observed by all groups of participants with reported enjoyment focused around the science talks, presentations and blended art-science activities. A putative impact in science capital is observed with participants reporting an increased likelihood of attending science events in the future. Furthermore, increased discussion and awareness of science in society is evidenced by participants. Blended art and microbiology exhibitions enhance the accessibly of science public engagement events and is likely to increase science capital; the impact of this on cognitive polyphasia is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine J Duckett
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Kirstie M Rawson
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - K Elizabeth Allen
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sarah Forbes
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Katherine E Rawlinson
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Hollie Shaw
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Melissa Lacey
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
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Verran J, Jackson S, Scimone A, Kelly P, Redfern J. Biofilm Control Strategies: Engaging with the Public. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:E465. [PMID: 32751577 PMCID: PMC7460344 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9080465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There are few peer-reviewed publications about public engagement with science that are written by microbiologists; those that exist tend to be a narrative of an event rather than a hypothesis-driven investigation. However, it is relatively easy for experienced scientists to use a scientific method in their approach to public engagement. This short communication describes three public engagement activities hosted by the authors, focused on biofilm control: hand hygiene, plaque control and an externally applied antimicrobial coating. In each case, audience engagement was assessed using quantitative and/or qualitative methods. A critical evaluation of the findings enabled the construction of a public engagement 'tick list' for future events that would enable a hypothesis-driven approach with more effective communication activities and more robust evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Verran
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M1 5GD, UK; (S.J.); (A.S.)
| | - Sarah Jackson
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M1 5GD, UK; (S.J.); (A.S.)
| | - Antony Scimone
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M1 5GD, UK; (S.J.); (A.S.)
| | - Peter Kelly
- Surface Engineering Group, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M1 5GD, UK;
| | - James Redfern
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M1 5GD, UK;
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Fahnert B. Be prepared - Learning for the future. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2020; 366:5573271. [PMID: 31550367 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnz200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Forward-looking papers from around the globe, addressing themes of current educational practice, were published in the FEMS Microbiology Letters virtual Thematic Issue 'Learning for the future' in October 2019. Its dynamic content is reviewed here to facilitate discussions within the professional community. The focus is on preparing generations of 21st century professionals as lifelong learners for yet unknown working environments and demands. Active and authentic learning is covered in various contexts from interactive lectures, via innovative tasks exploring the scientific method to conducting research over a distance. Naturally, authentic assessment features. Moreover, authentic learning is taken out of the classroom into the community as service learning for students to develop skills and see unexpected Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths career opportunities. Approaches to public engagement with science are presented including through art. Art is also brought into the classroom, as well as educational games, to foster creativity. Additionally, sharing science with large audiences on social media is discussed. Future-proofing education requires being innovative and imaginative. This comes with challenges and risks, but being prepared is worth it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrix Fahnert
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Green Lane, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK
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Kvint K, Palm M, Farewell A. Teaching about antibiotic resistance to a broad audience: a multidisciplinary approach. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2020; 367:fnaa111. [PMID: 32602885 PMCID: PMC8962684 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnaa111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Education for the general public about antibiotic resistance is advocated as a key component of our response to this crisis. Since this is a multidisciplinary problem encompassing natural, medical and social sciences, it is an educational challenge as both students and lecturers will have vastly different backgrounds in the topics. Here we describe an online multidisciplinary course on antibiotic resistance spanning topics as diverse as chemistry and practical philosophy. The target group was any post-secondary school student and the participating students had different occupations and educational experience. Although as many as 38% of the students were currently studying natural sciences at university, the course included a diverse group with medical professionals (16%) and teachers (6%) making up a significant fraction of the class. The outcomes based on examination and the course evaluations were very positive and we have indications that the information students gained from this course has been spread to others. Unlike other online courses addressing antibiotic resistance, this course is both accessible to a wide range of students and covers a broad range of topics. We advocate courses like ours as an effective tool in educating the public about this crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Kvint
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsdsgatan 10A, SE-413 46, Sweden
- Centre for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10A, SE-413 46 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Martin Palm
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan 9E, SE-405 30, Sweden
- Centre for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10A, SE-413 46 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anne Farewell
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan 9E, SE-405 30, Sweden
- Centre for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Guldhedsgatan 10A, SE-413 46 Gothenburg, Sweden
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Redfern J, Bowater L, Coulthwaite L, Verran J. Raising awareness of antimicrobial resistance among the general public in the UK: the role of public engagement activities. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2020; 2:dlaa012. [PMID: 34222970 PMCID: PMC8210175 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlaa012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In response to the accepted risk of emerging antimicrobial resistance, many organizations and institutions have developed and delivered events and activities designed to raise awareness of the issue and to change the behaviour of the intended audience. However, few of these events for a general public audience are documented or able to be sourced by those who might wish to repeat, adapt or modify, particularly those events that are successful. 'Insider knowledge' appears to be the best search tool. Moreover, evaluation of the success or impact of the event is rarely published. It would be useful if there were a 'hub' where descriptions of such activities could be deposited, enabling the building of a significant resource with real academic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Redfern
- Department of Natural Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Laura Bowater
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Lisa Coulthwaite
- Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Joanna Verran
- Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
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The Use of a Bookclub to Enhance Science Literacy and Understanding of Infectious Disease Epidemiology. PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION WITH FICTION MEDIA 2019. [PMCID: PMC7123487 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-17693-8_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
This chapter describes the activities of the Bad Bugs Bookclub, which brings scientists and non-scientists together to read novels where infectious disease formed part of the plot, and considers how these novels could be used to promote a better understanding of disease, epidemiology and the work of the professional scientist. A particular focus of the bookclub was to suggest how teachers in Higher Education might use these novels in their practice, although this specialised format can be used to benefit a wide range of professional (and non-professional) audiences. The Bad Bugs Bookclub has also been targeted towards students reading for a degree in Biomedical Science, accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences: graduates are professionally qualified to be employed as biomedical scientists.
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