Construction and teaching practice of the modular independent-designed research experiments in Microbiology

Abstract:

In order to let the lower classman to have the opportunity to learn the basic experimental techniques and participate in research experiments in the way of low-cost, less class hours and high individuality, the modular independent-designed research experiment based on basic experimental techniques in Microbiology was conceived. The main task for teachers is to propose a series of thematic modular experimental subjects, while student’s role is to choose topics independently, and to think, design, operate their experiment and analyze experiment results on their own. The work was performed with four cycles in three years. The design ideas, implementation approach and the behavior and performance of teachers and students in the research experiments were described in detail. Meanwhile, questionnaires containing 34 questions related to the experimental teaching from three classes were analyzed, and the deficiencies and improvements related to the experimental teaching also were discussed deeply. The teaching practice shows that the experiments approach does not lead to the obvious increase in the number of teachers, experimental costs and class hours. These make it easy to practice and operate in large-scale teaching. Average score for each question from 144 student feedback questionnaires was 4 points or more (out of 5), which indicated that this way could help to improve the students quality and make students to receive initial training of basic capacity and quality in scientific research. Most of students (88%?96%) suggested that it is an effective approach. The form in the research experiment, student initiative, scientificity of the experimental design, discussions and analysis about experimental results and other aspects need to be improved.

Key words:Microbiology, Research experiment, Modular, Independent design, Teaching practice, Result, Improving measures