Centre for Bioscience, The Higher Education Academy

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Evaluation of problem based learning to deliver bioinformatics education to life science undergraduates

Project Leader Dr Catherine Hack
Organisation University of Ulster
Contact cj.hack@ulster.ac.uk
Partners
  • Drs S. Cummings & I. Sutcliffe, School of Applied Science, Northumbria University
  • Drs D. Harrington & S. Picksley, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Bradford
Grant type Teaching Development
Completed Completed

Description

The aim of the project is to facilitate the delivery of Bioinformatics skills via problem-based learning (PBL) to life science students. We have developed a website which provides access to tried and tested problems; archived according to level and subject. The website also includes links to required or suggested resources and supporting data. The problems are also annotated with the skills that students may develop during completion of the exercise. This can be used and reviewed by the teaching community. Additionally, a pilot study at the University of Ulster occurred where students were given the opportunity to use bioinformatics skills to solve life-science problems in a PBL environment. The pilot study was evaluated using staff and student questionnaires, and analysis of coursework marks. Following a successful outcome from the pilot study, the approach was implemented and evaluated at the partner institutions.

Links

Access the probllem solving website.

Article in Bioscience Bulletin 25, p10, Development of a Bioinformatics PBL resource

View Catherine's presentation about the Project at the 2008 Reps Forum

Catherine also presented at the event "Engaging students: what's the problem?"