Last edited one month ago
by Peter Riegler

Enhancing Graphical Literacy in Introductory Biology Students using the Decoding Disciplines Paradigm


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Abstract

In 2022, the Indiana University Decoding Transitions to College Project united high school and university instructors to identify bottlenecks in student learning that interfere with transitioning to university. I focused on a challenge experienced by many university students-interpreting graphs. Using Decoding, I developed a graphing checklist outlining steps to interpret graphs, including orientation (identifying variables), pattern recognition (describing function shape), and interpretation (explaining the biological context of graphs). The checklist was implemented in an introductory course in 2022 and 2023. Students were guided through its use during discussions of new graphs. Over 75 % of students found checklists useful for interpreting graphs in several potential contexts. Additionally, significant improvements were observed from pre- to post-semester assessments of graphing skills. This intervention highlights a practical application of Decoding to enhance graphical literacy, a critical competency for scientific success, and demonstrates the effectiveness of translating Decoding into actionable teaching strategies.

Bibliographic data

Darcy, Tara (2025). Enhancing Graphical Literacy in Introductory Biology Students using the Decoding Disciplines Paradigm. die hochschullehre, Jahrgang 11/2025. DOI: 10.3278/HSL2537W

External source

https://dx.doi.org/10.3278/HSLT2537W

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