Incorporating A Structured Writing Process into Existing CLS Curricula

Karen Honeycutt; Sandra Latshaw

doi:10.29074/ascls.27.4.194

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Karen Honeycutt, M.Ed., MLS(ASCP)^CMSM^CM⇑
1. Clinical Laboratory Science Program, School of Allied Health Professions, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
Sandra Latshaw, MA, MT(ASCP)SM
1. Clinical Laboratory Science Program, School of Allied Health Professions, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Lincoln, NE

Address for Correspondence: Karen Honeycutt, M.Ed., MLS(ASCP)^CMSM^CM, Program Director, Clinical Laboratory Science Program, School of Allied Health Professions, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 984010 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-4010, 402-559-9045, khoneycu{at}unmc.edu

Abstract

Good communication and critical thinking are essential skills for all successful professionals, including Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Laboratory Science (CLS/MLS) practitioners. Professional programs can incorporate writing assignments into their curricula to improve student written communication and critical thinking skills. Clearly defined, scenario-focused writing assignments provide student practice in clearly articulating responses to proposed problems or situations, researching and utilizing informational resources, and applying and synthesizing relevant information. Assessment rubrics, structured feedback, and revision writing methodologies help guide students through the writing process. This article describes how a CLS Program in a public academic medical center, located in the central United States (US) serving five centrally-located US states has incorporated writing intensive assignments into an existing 11-month academic year using formal, informal and reflective writing to improve student written communication and critical thinking skills. Faculty members and employers of graduates assert that incorporating writing intensive requirements have better prepared students for their professional role to effectively communicate and think critically.

ABBREVIATIONS: APA - American Psychological Association, ASCLS - American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science, ASCP - American Society for Clinical Pathology, CLS - Clinical Laboratory Science, CLS/MT - Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology, CLS Program A - CLS Program in a public academic medical center, located in the central United States (US) serving five centrally located US states, CLSI - Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute, CT - critical thinking, MLA - Modern Language Association, MLS - Medical Laboratory Science, NAACLS - National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, US - United States, University B - centrally located US public university, WI - writing intensive