Enhancement of Undergraduate Women's Instruction in Molecular Biology

该项目的主要目标是为更新分子生物学实验课程的设备提供资金。该计划还有望改善其他使用分子基础技术的课程，向生物专业和非专业学生介绍分子基础概念和实验的能力，以及培养未来的小学科学教师。更新的实验课程解决的教学问题包括学习分子生物学的基本技术，介绍科学的研究方法，以及学习如何科学有效地写作。特别是，学生将被介绍到重要的分子技术，如制备重组DNA质粒，DNA分析使用聚合酶链反应（PCR）为基础的技术和测序，以及蛋白质表达分析。该项目的其他创新方面包括强调类似研究的实验室体验和增加使用计算机来加强学习。这种设备的使用也被纳入新的教育/自然科学专业，该专业利用新颖的、基于探究的技术来培训下一代小学科学教师。

The primary objective of this project is to provide funding for equipment to update molecular biology laboratory courses. The proposed project is also expected to improve other courses using molecular-based techniques, the ability to introduce molecular-based concepts and experimentation to biology majors and nonmajors, and the training of future elementary science teachers. Pedagogic issues addressed by the updated laboratory courses include learning essential techniques of molecular biology, introducing the scientific method of doing research, and learning how to write scientifically and effectively. In particular, students will be introduced to important molecular techniques, such as preparing recombinant DNA plasmids, DNA analysis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based techniques and sequencing, and analyses of protein expression. Other innovative aspects of the project include an emphasis on a research-like laboratory experience and an increased use of computers to enhance learning. The use of this equipment is also being integrated into a new Education/Natural Science major that utilizes novel, inquiry-based techniques to train the next generation of elementary science teachers.