Computational and quantitative skills are important for a well-rounded modern biology education. In this
workshop, we present a standalone lesson created for undergraduate microbiology courses that provides an
introduction to data visualization in R using the Posit Cloud interface. In this lesson, students follow a step-by-
step protocol to analyze sequencing data of SARS-CoV-2 genome variants using pre-made R scripts. They create
a map of mutations found across the genome as well as a series of graphs depicting the types of mutations
observed and their frequency. A series of questions throughout the activity promote group discussion about
topics in genetics and virology. These questions also encourage students to make predictions about the data
based on their prior knowledge and compare them to the maps and graphs they create, building authentic
research skills. The final part of the lesson requires students to make modifications to the provided R code in
order to display data about a gene of their choosing within the virus genome. This lesson requires no prior coding
or R experience. All data analysis is done using free cloud computing resources and requires no specialized
equipment other than computer and internet access.
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