Journal
BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION
Volume 38, Issue 5, Pages 317-323Publisher
WILEY
DOI: 10.1002/bmb.20400
Keywords
biochemistry laboratory guided; inquiry laboratory; malate dehydrogenase; green fluorescent protein
Funding
- National Science Foundation [CCLI DUE 0511629]
- Minnesota State Colleges and University Center for Teaching and Learning
Ask authors/readers for more resources
A successful laboratory experience provides the foundation for student success, creating active participation in the learning process. Here, we describe a new approach that emphasizes research, inquiry and problem solving in a year-long biochemistry experience. The first semester centers on the purification, characterization, and analysis of a novel fusion protein within a guided research experience. Throughout the semester, students gradually acquire skills as they are allowed to work independently. A fusion protein, malate dehydrogenase-green fluorescent protein with a histidine affinity tag (MGH), is used throughout the semester. The fusion protein allows for a high throughput analysis and is stable for duration of the semester. Students start with the purification and analysis of the plasmid DNA and end with an enzymatic analysis of MGH. As students take ownership of their experiments and choose two different chromatographic resins, they make many choices throughout the semester. Skills, motivation, confidence levels, and attitudes were assessed before and after the semester. Students achieved high levels of critical biochemical laboratory skills and critical thinking while increasing their confidence and motivation for working in a biochemical research setting.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available