Journal article 508 views 60 downloads
The virtual flow cytometer: A new learning experience and environment for undergraduate teaching
Frontiers in Education, Volume: 7
Swansea University Authors:
Dave Ruckley, Thomas Wilkinson
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© 2022 Francis, Ruckley and Wilkinson. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY).
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DOI (Published version): 10.3389/feduc.2022.903732
Abstract
Background: The use of simulations has been steadily rising in popularity in the biosciences, not only due to the COVID-19 pandemic restricting access to physical labs and equipment but also in the face of rising student numbers. In this study, we describe the development and implementation of a nov...
| Published in: | Frontiers in Education |
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| ISSN: | 2504-284X |
| Published: |
Frontiers Media SA
2022
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| Online Access: |
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| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa61766 |
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| Abstract: |
Background: The use of simulations has been steadily rising in popularity in the biosciences, not only due to the COVID-19 pandemic restricting access to physical labs and equipment but also in the face of rising student numbers. In this study, we describe the development and implementation of a novel, open-access interactive simulation used to not only supplement a laboratory class but to enhance the student learning experience. The simulation provides students with the opportunity to interact with a virtual flow cytometer, design a simple experiment and then critically analyse and interpret raw experimental data.Results: Results showed that this highly authentic assessment used a much broader range of the mark scheme acting as an excellent discriminatory for student ability compared to simple recall as assessed by multiple-choice questions. Overall, the student response to the new assessment was positive, highlighting the novelty of the assessment, however, some students did experience technical issues when the simulation was used for the first time.Conclusion: Simulations can play a crucial role in the student learning cycle by providing a rich, engaging learning environment, however, they need to be used to supplement other hands-on experiences to ensure that students acquire the necessary kinematic skills expected of a successful science graduate. |
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| Keywords: |
virtual flow cytometer, eLearning, simulations, immunology, pedagogy, dry labs, higher education |
| College: |
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences |
| Funders: |
This work was partly funded by a grant from the St. David’s Medical Foundation to NF and TW. |