title: An off-the-shelf, authentic, and versatile undergraduate molecular biology practical course.
abstract: We provide a prepackaged molecular biology course, which has a broad context and is scalable to large numbers of students. It is provided complete with technical setup guidance, a reliable assessment regime, and can be readily implemented without any development necessary. Framed as a forensic examination of blue/white cloning plasmids, the course is a versatile workbench, adaptable to different degree subjects, and can be easily modified to undertake novel research as part of its teaching activities. Course activities include DNA extraction, RFLP, PCR, DNA sequencing, gel electrophoresis, and transformation, alongside a range of basic microbiology techniques. Students particularly appreciated the relevance of the practical to professional practice and the authenticity of the experimental work.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Ceredigion, SY23 3DD, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: David E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Whitworth
mesh_terms: D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000379:methods; D003479:Curriculum; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008967:Molecular Biology / Q000193:education*; D013334:Students; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: bacterial genetics; education; molecular biology; practical course