Objectives of the Literature Research Laboratory
The information reported in research articles increases our understanding of the natural world and provides a basis for new technologies. Research articles are condensed, stylized reports that describe original (usually laboratory-based) research conducted by one or more highly trained investigators.
As a reader, you are expected to know the "context" of a research article. The context includes the knowledge that existed when the research was done and the theoretical and technical basis, strengths and limitations of the methods used by the investigators. These methods include experimental design, experimental techniques and statistical tools. Such background knowledge helps you to understand the investigators' reasons for undertaking their research, their choice of experiments, the data that were reported and the authors' interpretation of that data. Your analysis of a research article must include your independent interpretation and evaluation of the reported data, and your assessment of the contribution of the research to human knowledge and experience.
By completing this project you will learn to select, read, understand and analyze research articles. During the lab meetings, you will learn to find information essential to your analysis. Between lab meetings, you will read that information and formulate your reports, which will include systematic citations of references on which your analysis is based. Reference citations will validate your statements and acknowledge the prior work of other scholars. Analyses like yours are part of the process through which we learn and, hence, human knowledge develops.
This process of finding, understanding and analyzing information is not unique to microbiology or to science. In our personal lives, in employment and in public service activities we are constantly challenged to find, understand and analyze information. The broader goal of the Literature Research Lab is to equip you for that lifelong activity!
To prepare for Lab 1, click on the Literature Research Lab Orientation link below and complete the Lab Orientation: