Writing a literature review as a class project in an upper-level undergraduate biochemistry course

Biochem Mol Biol Educ. 2024 May-Jun;52(3):311-316. doi: 10.1002/bmb.21814. Epub 2024 Jan 9.

Abstract

A literature review is an important part of conducting academic research. Knowing how to conduct a literature search and write a high-quality literature review is a valuable skill. Herein, the authors describe the method of introducing a literature review writing exercise in an upper-level biochemistry course. Since 2020, authors have collaborated with numerous undergraduates writing literature reviews on topics in biochemistry that resulted in peer-reviewed publications. Authors believe that this unique idea of providing a course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) to many undergraduates, especially those who otherwise do not receive collaborative research experience through traditional research paths, must be shared with other instructors.

Keywords: course‐embedded undergraduate research; literature review writing project; scientific writing in biochemistry class.

MeSH terms

  • Biochemistry* / education
  • Curriculum*
  • Humans
  • Review Literature as Topic
  • Students*
  • Universities
  • Writing*