A flexible, rigorous laboratory experiment for upper-level biochemistry undergraduates is described that focuses on the Roundup Ready maize line. The work is appropriate for undergraduate laboratory courses that integrate biochemistry, molecular biology, or bioinformatics. In this experiment, DNA is extracted and purified from maize kernel and…

Describes the use of a small digital computer to simulate a peripheral nerve demonstration in which the action potential responses to pairs of stimuli are used to illustrate the properties of excitable membranes. (Author/MA)

Contains a reading list of articles published in 1985 covering 14 biological topics. Includes descriptions, procedures, and references for 26 experiments. These investigations deal with selected concepts in biology, ecology, chemistry, and physics and include computer-based instruction. (ML)

Examines college students' perception of an interactive videodisc learning system as an alternative to the conventional laboratory for learning biology skills and concepts taught under classroom laboratory conditions. Reports that the videodisc instruction gave more experimental and procedural options and more efficient use of time than the…

Modeled after the program "Mastermind," this program teaches students the art of protein sequencing. The program (written in Turbo Pascal for the IBM PC, requiring 128K, a graphics adapter, and an 8070 mathematics coprocessor) generates a polypeptide whose sequence and length can be user-defined (for practice) or computer-generated (for…

Describes a computer-based instructional unit in cardiovascular physiology. The program (which employs simulated laboratory experimental techniques with a problem-solving format is designed to supplement an animal laboratory and to offer students an integrative approach to physiology through use of microcomputers. Also presents an overview of the…

Offers an alternative to kymography systems for undergraduates in physiology courses. Explains how an easy-to-build transducer can be used for recording diverse physiological phenomena. Reviews the theory of transducer function and explains the performance of the microcomputer kymography. (ML)

Describes a technique which gives an automatic and accurate assessment of photosynthetic oxygen liberation with graphical results available immediately. This program takes readings from an oxygen electrode and a photocell simultaneously. The types of results and unique features of the technique are discussed. (ML)

Because advanced students had difficulty in interpreting cleavage patterns obtained by gel electrophoresis related to rapid sequencing techniques for DNA and RNA, several formats were developed to aid in understanding this topic. Formats included print, print plus scrambled print, interactive computer-based instruction, and high-resolution…

Effects of microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) exercises and level of cognitive development on high school biology students' ability to construct and interpret line graphs were investigated. Forty-six students enrolled in general biology classes at a rural high school volunteered to participate in the study. These students were administered…

Contains 21 articles ranging from instructional experiments to topical information. Deals with investigation of plant rust diseases, using computers to teach biology, plant roots, a biotechnology curriculum, the corrosion of oxides, electrochemical simulations, the Reimer-Tiemann reaction, the oxidation of aldehydes, and the extraction of iodine…

This document consists of four years (40 issues) of a newsletter devoted to computers in life science education. Titles of major articles in this collection include: (1) "Good Versus Bad Software: What Makes the Difference?" (G. Kearsly); (2) "Linkway: Hypermedia for IBM Personal Computers" (L. Kheriaty); (3) "Where's the…

Describes the use of the computer in the laboratory for data acquisition and analysis--specifically a method to measure the respiration rate in aquatic organisms. Demonstrates the use of computer-interfaced pH measurement in the introductory biology laboratory. (PR)

This project originated with the desire to offer general biology students a laboratory experience which emphasizes scientific thinking rather than a review of lecture content. To create investigative laboratories without many of the practical problems of their implementation, this project uses a combination of "methods modules" for…

Presents results of a study that examines the development and use of computer simulations for high school science instruction and for integrated laboratory and computerized tests that are part of the biology matriculation examination in Israel. Eleven implications for teaching are presented. (MDH)