Multi-Level Implementation of Interdisciplinary Inquiry- and Research-Based Labs

该项目将生物和化学课程联系起来，并通过将共同的研究主题纳入选定课程，增加基于探究的实验室模块的数量。普通化学实验室正在修订，以向所有生物和化学学生介绍基本的科学概念，使用基于发现的方法来解决现实世界的问题，如二氧化碳释放和生物燃料燃烧。研究经验正在被引入另外四门课程-两门生物学课程和两门化学课程。这些相关课程通过让学生合成抗癌钌络合物并对这类新药的化学和生物学特性进行研究，向学生介绍最纯粹的探究形式。所有模块都包含渐进式方法的元素，学生从高度结构化，定义明确的任务开始，重点是建立基本技能，然后进展到更开放的项目。该项目的成果包括提高批判性思维和解决问题的能力。这些活动正在帮助学生从生物和化学的角度解决现实世界的问题-药物开发-从而形成现代科学的综合观点。学生在课程内和跨课程的研究合作正在生物学和化学专业之间建立更强的社区意识。

This project is connecting the biology and chemistry curricula as well as increasing the number of inquiry-based laboratory modules by incorporating a common research theme into select courses. The General Chemistry lab is being revised to introduce all biology and chemistry students to fundamental scientific concepts using a discovery-based approach to solve real-world problems such as carbon dioxide release and biofuel combustion. Research experiences are being introduced into four additional courses - two in biology and two in chemistry. These linked courses are introducing students to the purest form of inquiry by having them synthesize anticancer ruthenium complexes and conduct research on the chemical and biological properties of this new class of drug. All modules incorporate elements of the gradualism approach in which students start off with highly structured, well-defined tasks that focus on building basic skills and then progress to more open-ended projects. Outcomes of this project include improved critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. The activities are helping students develop an integrated view of modern science as they tackle a real-world problem - drug development - from both biological and chemical perspectives. Student collaborations on research within and across courses is building a stronger sense of community among biology and chemistry majors.