Implementation of a Model Course for Non-Science Majors Incorporating Modern Molecular Biology Techniques, Molecular Modeling and Instrumental Analysis

化学系正在为非理科专业的学生实施以实验室为基础的科学体验模式。这项改进包括购买新开发的实验室所需的分子生物学组件。这门课程的最初受众是该大学荣誉和学者项目的新生。这些高资质的学生代表了一个理想的受众，他们可以确定是否可以在入门课程中呈现通常保留在高级科学课程中的主题、高度有趣的报道。本课程的结构突出了实验经验。这种方法是新颖的，而且可能是激进的，因为它自上而下地处理分子科学领域的课程。计算机建模可以支持这种方法的假设正在接受测试。学生们参加了一个克隆项目，在这个项目中，生物发光的基因从一个细菌转移到另一个细菌。他们通过比较两种微生物的分子特征来学习“分子指纹”的概念。然后，将这种指纹分析思想应用到使用现代仪器分析的自选样品的分析中。期望学生不仅对科学的本质有一种欣赏和理解，尤其是对发现带来的兴奋。实验室练习的顺序具体涉及与从具体经验中发展抽象概念有关的问题。该项目的成功可以为非理科专业开发类似的以实验室为重点的课程提供借鉴。这类课程可能会对解决科学素养问题产生重大影响。

The Department of Chemistry is implementing a model laboratory-based science experience for non-science-majors. This enhancement includes the purchase of the molecular biology components needed for the newly developed laboratory. The initial audience for this course is made up of incoming students in the university's Honors and Scholars program. These high-aptitude students represent an ideal audience for ascertaining whether topical, highly interesting coverage, usually reserved for upper-level science courses, can be presented at the introductory level. The structure of the course highlights the laboratory experience. This approach is novel and perhaps radical in that it approaches the curriculum, in the area of molecular science, from the top down. The assumption that computer modeling can support this approach is being tested. Students take part in a cloning project in which the gene for bioluminescence is transferred from one bacterium to another. They learn the concept of `molecular fingerprinting` by comparing the molecular characteristics of two micro-organisms. This fingerprinting idea is then applied to the analysis of self-selected samples using modern instrumental analysis. It is expected that the student not only develop an appreciation for, but also an understanding of, the nature of science, especially the excitement that accompanies discovery. The order of laboratory exercises specifically addresses issues related to the development of abstract concepts from concrete experiences. The success of this project may serve as a model for the development of similar laboratory focused courses for non-science-majors. Such courses may have a major impact on addressing the issue of science literacy.