Exploring the Human Immune System through Video, Puzzle, Discussion and Writing

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2016, Volume 37

Brianna Wright

Abstract

It can be difficult to actively guide non-major science students in understanding how the human immune system works to protect against harmful pathogens, and how those pathogens could potentially evade the immune system's defenses. We developed a mixed instructional approach to engage students in understanding how the immune system works outside of class through video and guided question, during class through hands-on puzzle and discussion, and after class through writing about experiences during exploration of the concept. This exercise is appropriate for undergraduate, non-major science students but can be modified for other levels and implemented in a lab, discussion, or lecture setting. These experiences provide opportunity for a more hands-on approach to understanding how the human immune system operates and gives students the chance to reflect on learning gains during investigation of the human immune system. During this workshop, participants will explore the acquired immune responses through puzzle and discussion, and will be provided with the out-of-class materials we have developed for immediate use or modification.

Keywords:  immunology, acquired immune system

Boston University (2015)