Abstract
The transgenic mouse model is useful for studying the causes and potential cures for human genetic diseases. Exposing high school biology students to laboratory experience in developing transgenic animal models is logistically prohibitive. Computer-based simulation, however, offers this potential in addition to advantages of fidelity and reach. This study describes and evaluates a computer-based simulation to train advanced placement high school science students in laboratory protocols, a transgenic mouse model was produced. A simulation module on preparing a gene construct in the molecular biology lab was evaluated using a randomized clinical control design with advanced placement high school biology students in Mercedes, Texas (n = 44). Pre-post tests assessed procedural and declarative knowledge, time on task, attitudes toward computers for learning and towards science careers. Students who used the simulation increased their procedural and declarative knowledge regarding molecular biology compared to those in the control condition (both p < 0.005). Significant increases continued to occur with additional use of the simulation (p < 0.001). Students in the treatment group became more positive toward using computers for learning (p < 0.001). The simulation did not significantly affect attitudes toward science in general. Computer simulation of complex transgenic protocols have potential to provide a “virtual” laboratory experience as an adjunct to conventional educational approaches.
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Acknowledgements
The authors thank Beth Ardoin, Xak Daffin, Dan Sessions, Marla Guerra, Steven Schneider, Sandra Jiminez, Esteban Villareal, Michael Wertz, Michael Aranda, Lucy Hansen, and Javier Jiminez for their technical expertise and contributions in the development and evaluation of the virtual lab simulation.
This study was supported by Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA), Grant Number R25 RR020543. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Center for Research Resources or the National Institutes of Health.
The virtual molecular biology lab module is freely available from the authors upon request.
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Appendix
Appendix
Measurement Instruments (sample items).
Procedural knowledge. Lab notebook “Skills” Log Sheet
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Shegog, R., Lazarus, M.M., Murray, N.G. et al. Virtual Transgenics: Using a Molecular Biology Simulation to Impact Student Academic Achievement and Attitudes. Res Sci Educ 42, 875–890 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11165-011-9216-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11165-011-9216-7