Demonstrations, Skits and Props in Introductory Biology to Improve Student Understanding and Engagement?

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2015, Volume 36

Donna L. Pattison

Abstract

Demonstrations, skits, props, and activities can be used to create a more interactive, engaging environment in Introductory Biology lecture courses. Activities to reinforce the following topics have been developed : specific heat of water, transcription/translation, lipids, and cellular respiration. These activities can be used to clear up student misconceptions and as a platform for teaching study skills in the context of the curriculum. Using a think-pair-share approach in combination with “clickers” or similar response tools can be paired with these activities to ensure full class engagement and probe the level of understanding of the students.

Keywords:  transcription, translation, cellular respiration, introductory biology, lipid, specific heat of water

University of Oregon (2014)