ERIC Number: EJ1458824
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024-Mar
Pages: 10
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0021-9584
EISSN: EISSN-1938-1328
Sourdough as a Model Organism for Facilitating Undergraduate Biochemistry and Biology Education
Journal of Chemical Education, v101 n3 p1180-1189 2024
In response to the shifting modalities of laboratory-based education, particularly amidst the rise of virtual and at-home instruction, we introduce a novel hybrid laboratory module for undergraduate biochemistry and biology courses. Central to this innovative approach is the use of sourdough as a versatile and accessible model organism, enabling a blend of home and in-lab learning experiences. This sourdough-based module allows students to explore key biochemistry concepts and techniques both in a traditional laboratory setting and within their own home environments. Accompanied by a kit of disposable, economical equipment, the module is designed for flexibility and adaptability, catering to various instructional formats. The use of sourdough in this context serves as a powerful educational tool, facilitating hands-on learning and offering insights into microbial diversity and fermentation processes. By engaging with this module, students not only gain practical biochemistry experience but also develop a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between microorganisms and their environments. The hybrid structure of this module reflects the evolving educational landscape, offering a sustainable and effective alternative to traditional lab setups. Our findings highlight the potential of sourdough as a model organism in biochemistry education, showcasing its effectiveness in fostering student engagement and comprehension in diverse learning contexts.
Descriptors: College Science, Biochemistry, Biology, Science Education, Undergraduate Students, Science Laboratories, Scientific Concepts, Hands on Science, Manipulative Materials, Microbiology, Distance Education
Division of Chemical Education, Inc. and ACS Publications Division of the American Chemical Society. 1155 Sixteenth Street NW, Washington, DC 20036. Tel: 800-227-5558; Tel: 202-872-4600; e-mail: eic@jce.acs.org; Web site: http://pubs.acs.org/jchemeduc
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A