An Interactive Approach to the Teaching/Learning of Metabolism

Marie-Paule Van_Damme*; MK Trembath
Monash University
marie-paule.vandamme@med.monash.edu.au

Our aim is to improve studentsÕ understanding of basic biochemistry and to promote the development of learning skills, such as the ability to think logically, identify key issues, analyse and solve problems, and to find and use information appropriately. To these ends we have developed two interactive computer exercises plus a tutorial package for all undergraduate students of biochemistry.

The exercises provide pathways of questions which guide students to resolve metabolic issues. Entitled ÒThe Great Metabolic RaceÓ and ÒThe After Race BanquetÓ, they require students to think logically and to respond by integrating and applying knowledge obtained from a variety of sources which relate to the metabolism of carbohydrate and lipid during and after extended exercise. The exercises are currently used as the focus for small group discussion during dry laboratory sessions as well as for revision and self testing by individuals.

A set of thirteen self placed, interactive tutorials covering the fundamentals of metabolism are linked to these exercises to act as one resource. The tutorials complement rather than replace lectures and are often used by lecturers to provide graphic demonstrations / animations.

The programs are all accessible to Monash students via the student computer network and are used extensively in their own time. Surveys have shown that students respond particularly well to the participatory nature of this new resource and find the self-paced learning and testing very valuable. We are currently attempting to ascertain whether this translates to improved student comprehension as judged by examination performance and find the preliminary indications to be promising.

The package, entitled ÒInteractive Biochemistry - MetabolismÓ is now available on CD-ROM.