The Case of the Cumbersome Chromosomes: An Introduction to Workshop Genetics

 

Tammy Tobin-Janzen

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2003, Volume 24

Abstract

The goal of the Workshop Genetics Project is to increase student comprehension of and enthusiasm for genetics. Genetics is a highly quantitative subject that is frequently a stumbling block for biology majors. Studies show that students enroll in genetics with misconceptions regarding everything from the cell cycle and mitosis to evolution. Furthermore, students have a particularly hard time relating many genetics concepts to their everyday lives. Nonetheless, most initiatives to improve science education have focused on introductory and general education courses. In order to rectify these problems, the “Workshop Biology” project, which was developed for a large general education class at the University of Oregon, was adapted for implementation in our smaller, mid-level genetics class.

Keywords:  genetics, chromosome

Louisiana State University (2002)