Students are constantly exposed to science related opinions and claims in the news media (newspaper, magazine and on-line articles, radio, and TV). Whether the media reports on a new cancer drug, a breakthrough in stem cell research or evidence of climate change, the language used is often dramatic and clear cut. Even if the scientific studies behind them are seldom as clear cut and revolutionary as the news stories claim, the information in news stories can play a large role in scientific teaching. First, current news stories with scientific information can be used to introduce abstract issues in class in order to relate the material to students' everyday lives. Second, news media can be used to teach students how to critically analyze scientific information. When comparing the claims made in news stories with the results from scientific studies, students learn to ask questions, and to look for further information and references. This study explores student responses to a weekly assignment in a human biology class for students who major in non-science disciplines. Students analyzed news stories and compared their conclusions with results from related articles found in scientific journals. By the end of the semester the students were asked if the assignment facilitated their learning of materials covered in class.

Results/Conclusions

69% of the students answered that the news media assignments facilitated their learning in the class. Student who answered that the assignments facilitated their learning answered that they helped them understand the differences in style between news stories and journal articles, as well as to connect contemporary issues with class material. On the other hand, students who answered that the assignments did not facilitate their learning answered that they found it difficult to relate the news stories to the class material and that the assignments took away valuable study time, especially if the articles were not related to topics covered in class. The results suggest that the use of news media may facilitate student learning and increase students’ appreciation of class material, but the study also raises new questions. For example, how can students' analyses of news stories and scientific articles be further incorporated into the class?