A New Open-Source Web Application with Animations to Support Learning of Neuron-to-Neuron Signaling

Pesticides and their associated modes of action serve as real-world examples of chemical toxicity, stimulating student interest and supporting their understanding of nervous system function and cell signaling. An open-source web application called Neuron-to-Neuron Normal and Toxic Actions hosts narrated animations of pesticide toxic actions and exists as a resource for instructors of advanced secondary or undergraduate biology courses. This article describes the features of the web application, reports student feedback on the animations, and details a cooperative learning procedure for instructors to use the web application in online learning environments or in-person classroom settings with technology support.

Automated summary

This article introduces an open-source web application that provides resources for instructors of high school or college biology courses, using narrated animations of pesticide toxic actions as examples to help students deepen their understanding of chemical toxicity, nervous system function, and cell signaling. Additionally, it details a cooperative learning procedure that teachers can use the web application in online learning environments or classroom settings with technology support.