Teaching and Learning Science in the Era of COVID-19
Schools and universities closed in March, presenting science teachers and instructors with many new challenges associated with remote learning. Moving instruction to online classes overnight is a challenge, but when a course includes science labs, the challenge can be even greater. Across the country, as schools and universities make decisions around re-opening, teachers need to […]
Packaging Options for Preserved Specimens
Pail-packed or vacuum-packed specimens? Compare the advantages of these package types before you decide. Pail Packed Specimens Pail-packed specimens are packaged in 1- to 5-gallon pails, fully immersed in preservation fluid and sealed with leak-proof lids. Pails are easy to store, and they keep specimens fresh for months to years. This package type is ideal […]
Dissection Artifacts for Three-Dimensional Instruction
By using models, diagrams, group discussions, peer review, labeling exercises, etc., we can create student portfolios that detail the growth of each student throughout a unit of instruction. Artifact is an exciting and a thought-provoking word. It brings to mind the idea of archaeologists on digs in far-off lands–scientists discovering exotic and rare finds that […]
Forensics
Make Real-World Connections and Engage Students When crime scene investigators collect and analyze evidence from the scene of a crime, they are applying forensic science. By using tools from physical science, biology, and math, investigators are able to recreate and analyze the elements of a crime scene. Forensic science allows law enforcement officials to determine […]
Tips for Creating an Engaging Online Course
Create an engaging online course. Here’s how . . . To ensure online teaching success, student engagement is of paramount importance. As the saying goes, an engaged student is a motivated student. Studies show: If students aren’t engaged, they can’t perform at their best. A sense of belonging to a group enhances student performance. Online […]
Recommended Safety and Emergency Equipment for the Laboratory
Checklists for safety and emergency equipment for the laboratory Use these checklists for safety and emergency equipment for the laboratory. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Chemical splash goggles Lab coat Lab apron Gloves (select based on the material being handled and the hazard involved) Need help deciding which safety equipment is right for your class? VIEW […]
Water Quality Monitoring
Make an Environmental Connection You’ve probably seen it on a bumper sticker, “Think Globally, Act Locally.” Have you ever thought about how it might relate to the way we teach our students? Relating global concepts such as water quality and pollution to a local body of water through watershed assessment and water quality monitoring can […]
10 Challenges A&P Teachers Face and How to Overcome Them
Every teacher faces challenges in the classroom, but for teachers of anatomy and physiology (A&P)–a crucial course that acts as a gatekeeper for many allied health programs–the hurdles can be unique and are critical to overcome for students to advance in their career pathways. Here are some of the challenges A&P teachers shared with us […]
Biotechnology: An Essential Curriculum
This essential curriculum for introductory biotechnology covers DNA structure and function, basic lab techniques, transformation, electrophoresis, restriction analysis, PCR and sequencing, bioinformatics, and bioethics. Supplemental materials include a biotechnology vocabulary assessment and optional labs and activities. DNA structure and function Our curriculum begins with a DNA extraction lab. This introductory lab lets your students examine […]
Move Your Classroom Outside
Outdoor Learning Activities Spring is in the air, and if your students are like mine, they’re just itching to be outside. An outdoor classroom, whether a formal classroom area or just an informal gathering spot, is the perfect way to help students maintain focus as the school year winds down. Plan your final quarter with […]