We have developed an interactive lab manual for the wet-lab, Biochemical Techniques, to improve student preparation and cognition. The software makes lab time more efficient, it aids understanding of the processes that take place in the lab, and acts as a self-paced tutorial and as reference material. Students can review an experiment, learn more about the main technique being used, or can practice math skills they must apply in the lab. On-screen information, screen features, and overall layout were carefully designed taking into account pedagogical and cognitive implications of the learning process. Photos, movies, illustrations, and animation help students visualize the experimental steps and the equipment set-up, as well as the events happening on the molecular level.
Simulations allow students to practice the use or set-up of equipment.
Built into the modules is a system that allows electronic communication between instructor and students, as well as on-line library research. Numerical and bibliographic databases, electronic journals, and tutorials abound on the net.