A comprehensive process model for discussing and recording scientific papers

Abstract

Efficient and effective reading of scientific papers is an important and challenging task. We have addressed it by applying principles and techniques from software process engineering, developing a comprehensive paper process model which we have enacted, improved and validated over the past one and a half years at weekly discussion sessions. The model captures paper selection, paper discussion, and the recording and retrieval of the discussion results. The focus of this paper lies on the paper discussion process which describes the systematic and detailed classification, analysis, and evaluation of research papers, provides guidance throughout the course of the group discussions, and guarantees that all relevant information of the discussions is retained in an annotated bibliography database. Our experience shows that students obtain a deep domain understanding, are trained in systematically assessing scientific papers and research results, and acquire invaluable hands-on experience with a sample process model.

This material is partly based upon work which author carried out as an adjunct professor at McGill University.

Author's names are listed alphabetically; authors contributed equally to this work.