학술논문

Immune Literacy: A Call to Action for a System-Level Change
Document Type
Journal Articles
Reports - Descriptive
Author
Mixter, Philip F.Kleinschmit, Adam J.Lal, Archana (ORCID 0000-0002-8578-5649); Vanniasinkam, ThiruCondry, Danielle L. J. (ORCID 0000-0002-0310-4513); Taylor, Rebekah T. (ORCID 0000-0003-3601-5346); Justement, Louis B.Pandey, Sumali (ORCID 0000-0003-1542-6410)
Source
Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education. 2023 24(1).
Subject
Epidemiology
Scientific Concepts
Teaching Methods
Science Instruction
Scientific Literacy
Communities of Practice
Curriculum Design
Credibility
Information Sources
Interdisciplinary Approach
Faculty Development
Decision Making
Immunization Programs
Audiences
Language
English
ISSN
1935-7877
1935-7885
Abstract
Immune literacy--the ability to hear, learn, read, write, explain, and discuss immunological content with varied audiences--has become critically important in recent years. Yet, with its complex terminology and discipline-specific concepts, educating individuals about the immune system and its role in health and disease may seem daunting. Here, we reflect on how to demystify the discipline and increase its accessibility for a broader audience. To address this, a working group of immunology educators from diverse institutions associated with the research coordination network, ImmunoReach, convened virtually. As a result of these discussions, we request a call to action for a system-level change and present a set of practical recommendations that novice and experienced educators from diverse institutions, professional societies, and policymakers may adopt to foster immune literacy in their classrooms and communities.