Reimagining bioRxiv and preprint servers as platforms for academic learning

Area of Science:

• Life Science Research
• Scientific Publishing
• Scholarly Communication

Background:

• bioRxiv is a widely used preprint server for life science research.
• Preprint servers increase research visibility but can pose challenges for trainees.
• Understanding the peer review process is crucial for scientific development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a guide for utilizing bioRxiv as a training tool for students.
• To offer suggestions for improving bioRxiv's functionality and user experience.
• To address potential confusion arising from bioRxiv content on PubMed.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of bioRxiv usage in scientific training.
• Analysis of best practices for integrating preprints into trainee education.
• Examination of user feedback and platform features of bioRxiv.
• Review of PubMed indexing policies for preprints.

Main Results:

• bioRxiv serves as a valuable resource for increasing research dissemination.
• Structured use of bioRxiv can effectively introduce trainees to scientific peer review.
• Improvements are needed to clarify the status of bioRxiv articles and their relationship with PubMed.

Conclusions:

• bioRxiv offers significant potential as an educational tool for life science trainees.
• Optimizing bioRxiv's integration into training programs requires clear guidelines.
• Addressing issues like PubMed indexing will enhance the clarity and utility of bioRxiv for the scientific community.