The Use of a Bookclub to Enhance Science Literacy and Understanding of Infectious Disease Epidemiology

Abstract

The Birth of the Bad Bugs BookclubThis chapter describes the activities of a bookclub that brought scientists and non-scientists together to read novels where infectious disease formed part of the plot, and to consider how these novels could be used to promote a better understanding of disease and epidemiology (Treffry-Goatley 2017), and the work of the professional scientist. Fictions, and popular fictions in particular, have been used to support the understanding of complex concepts. Jarvis and Gouthro (2015) identify 'using arts to illustrate complex concepts and dilemmas' as one of five key ways in which academics use the arts in education. This can include scientific concepts and dilemmas, such as those explored by White (2008). Fewer investigations consider how this 7

Virtually engaging students through collaborative investigation of scientific literature, a case study

“…In introductory science courses, or courses with students from diverse academic backgrounds, the journal club structure is an effective way to bridge perspectives and engage participants in discussion. Verran (2019) highlights the role of book clubs in bringing scientists and nonscientists together with the common goal of learning about and discussing disease epidemiology by reading novels featuring plots with infectious disease. Novels can be more accessible to early stage scientists and to non-scientists, providing the opportunity to communicate about science topics without cognitive overload.…”

Using fiction to engage audiences with infectious disease: the effect of the coronavirus pandemic on participation in the Bad Bugs Bookclub

“…When books have been suggested by other bookclub members, they preferred this structure, rather than leading the discussion themselves. The questions explore both the literary and scientific aspects of the novel, particularly focusing on the pathogen of concern (Verran 2019a ). These questions are refined and then posted on the website as the ‘reading guide’.…”

“… 2014 ). The bookclub format has also been used to encourage literacy and discussion amongst biology and biomedical science undergraduates (Verran 2013 ; Verran 2019a ), and for children's literature (Verran 2010b , 2015 ): the format has of course been used successfully elsewhere in science education (Calman et al . 1988 , Aaronson 2008 ).…”

Promoción de la lectura digital: un estudio de caso entre oficinistas universitarios

“…El cúmulo de aportes positivos puede derivar en una mejora laboral para el profesional, que de manera natural beneficiará a la organización. Es por esto que algunas compañías e instituciones, cada vez con mayor frecuencia, realizan talleres de lectura (Goldfield, 2011;Heathfield, 2018;Ros, Hurtado y Mateu, 2019;Verran, 2019).…”

“…El coordinador de este tipo de talleres es regularmente un promotor de lectura, es decir, una persona con la habilidad de activar el interés o necesidad de la lectura de las obras (Arana y Galindo, 2009; Morales, Rincón y Tona, 2005; Petit, 2008). Los talleres de lectura con profesionales permiten establecer un diálogo crítico que motiva la reflexión, el fortalecimiento de saberes, las habilidades de comunicación y la vinculación con la lectura (Ros, Hurtado y Mateu, 2019;Verran, 2019). Cuando se organizan como parte de las actividades de una empresa consolidan la cultura, el conocimiento profundo y desarrollo de los empleados, así como la cohesión entre el equipo de trabajo (Goldfield, 2011;Heathfield, 2018).…”