Improving Undergraduate Instruction Through an Integrated Program in Microscopic Techniques

该项目的一个特点是分三个阶段介绍使用扫描电子显微镜（SEM）作为生物课程的一部分。该计划的教育目标是对微观世界的概念定位。 生物学和地球科学入门课程的专业和非专业学生首先观察演示，然后参加由导师领导的小组项目，使用SEM的自动模式进行动手操作。他们研究为SEM准备的实验室材料。这一阶段的重点是准备材料和以照片、幻灯片或录像带的形式介绍结果。在中级水平，SEM理论和技术的更详细的指导最初作为生物技术，微生物学，植物生物学II和寄生虫学课程的一部分教授。在本科阶段使用SEM扩展了学生进行本科研究项目的能力。

A feature of this project is a three-phased introduction to the use of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as part of the biology curriculum. The educational goal of this program is conceptual orientation to the microscopic world. Majors and non-majors in introductory courses in biology and earth science first observe demonstrations then participate in instructor-led small group projects leading to hands on operation using automatic modes of the SEM. They study experimental laboratory materials which they have prepared for SEM. Emphasis at this stage is on preparation of materials and presentation of results in the form of photographs, slides, or videotapes. At an intermediate level more detailed instruction in the theory and technique of SEM is taught initially as part of the Biological Techniques, Microbiology, Plant Biology II and Parasitology courses. The use of SEM at the undergraduate level extends students' abilities to conduct undergraduate research projects.