Investigative Curriculum for Biology Undergraduates

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Over the past three years, the biology program has designed and implemented an investigation-driven curriculum that emphasizes learning through laboratory investigations. This emphasis on investigation as the mode of learning begins with the freshman biology independent projects and culminates with the biology senior thesis. Specific courses throughout the curriculum have been designated to focus on development of skills and attitudes necessary for the successful practice of investigation. Through this project, a microplate reader/washer and an 02/CO2 respirometer are introduced to the students early in the curriculum, providing familiarity with the theory and operation of the instruments and the opportunity to design and undertake investigations previously not possible.