BIO504 Litterature search and academic writing

Contents and structure

The aim of the course is to provide an introduction to systematic literature search and academic writing.

During the semester, the student will write a scientific review article. In article preparation, the student must apply knowledge from subject-specific master's courses and the course "Philosophy of science, ethics and research methods". The student is encouraged to choose a topic and acquire new knowledge that will be relevant in the work on the master's thesis in Medical Laboratory Technology.

The supervisor for the master's thesis can assist in litterature search and provide feedback on writing guidance/text design.

During the process, the student will present his/her own work to fellow students. Students will practice giving each other feedback and writing guidance.

The review article will be submitted at the end of the semester for final assessment.

The course focuses on:

- To define a problem within medical laboratory technology and laboratory medicine.

- Litterature search for scientific articles and relevant sources.

- Structure and build up of a scientific review article.

- Referential, analyzing and discussing ways of writing

- Source criticism and citation check.

Learning Outcome

On successful completion of the course, the student will have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence

Knowledge

The student.....

- Has knowledge of methodology for performing and documenting systematic literature searches.

Skills

The student....

- Can define academic issues

- Can design a search protocol, perform and document subsequent systematic literature searches.

- Can read, critically analyze, evaluate and decide on the content of academic literature.

- Can systematize, summarize and present research data from his/her own field of study.

- Can produce scientific texts with precise formulations and correct use of source references.

- Can provide feedback and guidance on oral and written presentations.

General competense

The student...

- Can design, discuss and reason about issues related to medical laboratory technology and laboratory medicine in health services and research.

Entry requirements

None

Teaching methods

The student will receive and submit assignments in Canvas, and will also communicate with both fellow students and teachers via the Canvas platform. Regular online meetings/video conferences will be held. To attend the meetings, the student needs a microphone, speaker and webcam.

The student writes a review article on a self-chosen topic throughout the semester.

The teaching includes physical and online seminars with presentations made by the students. The student will participate in supervision groups, where the participants give each other feedback on written work.

Compulsory learning activities

The student must submit the first and second drafts of the review article within set deadlines.

The student will give 1-2 oral presentations.

Students will give feedback on each other's text and presentations during the semester.

Approved compulsory work requirements are valid for 8 consecutive semesters

Assessment

Submittet review article consisting of around 3000 words.

Grading scale A-F where F is fail.

Examination support material

All support material is permitted.

More about examination support material