Digital learning material for student-directed model building in molecular biologyS

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Developmental Biology
• Bioinformatics Education

Background:

• Model building is crucial for explaining data and making predictions in molecular biology.
• Previous digital cases guided students step-by-step in model construction.
• A need exists for more realistic, yet supported, model-building exercises.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a third digital case for molecular biology education.
• To enhance student practice in building predictive models.
• To simulate a realistic research environment for model development.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel digital case focused on Drosophila bristle selection.
• Incorporation of increased student autonomy in the model-building process.
• Provision of structured support to facilitate independent learning.

Main Results:

• The new digital case allows for greater student freedom in model construction.
• Students can follow personalized model-building approaches.
• Sufficient support is integrated to prevent the need for intensive supervision.

Conclusions:

• The third digital case effectively balances student freedom and guided support.
• This approach enhances the realism of model-building practice in molecular biology.
• The digital case is a valuable tool for training future scientists in predictive modeling.