This laboratory procedure uses an inquiry-based approach to give students experience developing a research protocol and hands-on practice with the scientific method. Student-designed,? hypothesis-driven, research methods will allow students to develop their skills in project design, data collection, and analysis and allow for flexibility based on course content and academic level. This is ideal for a freshman level introductory biology course but can be scaled up to a higher-level course.? The research organisms for this laboratory activity are tardigrades (water bears) which are ubiquitous organisms often found in the water layer that surrounds mosses and lichens. These? hardy micro-invertebrates generally measure less than 0.5 mm in length and are extremophiles who survive a variety of environmental conditions making them excellent model organisms to study.? The laboratory methods will give students practice in sample collections and introduce or reinforce their skills using a microscope to search for and view the organisms.? This simple, inexpensive exercise focuses on developing a hypothesis and research method where students collect moss and lichen samples from a variety of locations. Instructors can also order specimens and set up several? laboratory environments for student designed methods when outside collection is not feasible.? Inquiry- based learning increases student engagement and has shown to have a positive impact on overall learning. This laboratory engages students in applying the scientific method to develop critical thinking skills and basic laboratory techniques.
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