Bacterial Monologue: An Engaging Writing Activity for Nonscience Majors

Abstract

The anthropocentric focus of microbiology has painted a negative image of the largely unknown bacterial community, when in reality bacteria play many more significant roles than influencing human health. It is important to convey this message to college students so that they can make informed decisions as an educated citizen. Non-major students taking a microbiology course however, may demonstrate poor interest and become further alienated by the abstract terminologies. Recent studies suggest that story writing may enhance scientific literacy, and role-play activities are effective means to engage students. Here, I combine these two strategies and introduce a writing activity in which students impersonate an assigned bacterium. Through this writing exercise, students demonstrated deeper understanding of key concepts in microbiology, greater appreciation of the broad roles of bacteria, and improved attitude towards science and science learning.