Science communication tools: rubrics for generating posters and manuscripts that are authentic to the practice of science

Abstract

Traditional undergraduate science courses often prioritize content mastery over authentic engagement with the scientific process. Course-based research, also referred to as course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs), addresses this limitation by immersing students in authentic scientific practice. In course-based research, assessment practices can also mirror the authentic scientific practice, where extensive formative feedback supports refinement of skills and understanding. Here, we present two rubrics designed to support the teaching and assessment of science communication in a way that reflects how scientists prepare to disseminate their research findings. One rubric is for creating scientific posters and another for writing short-format manuscripts. Developed by approximately 100 faculty members who collaboratively implement CUREs through the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Science Education Alliance (SEA) program, these rubrics outline the authentic steps scientists take when preparing to communicate their research and provide performance levels that clarify expectations for both students and instructors. Together, these tools aim to further align undergraduate science education and authentic scientific practice.