Developing a project-oriented introduction to neuroscience lab at hope college.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Endocrinology
• Behavioral Biology

Background:

• Neuroscience courses often lack hands-on research experience.
• Understanding gonadal hormone effects on the brain is crucial in neuroscience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of an extended laboratory project on student learning in an introductory neuroscience course.
• To evaluate the project's effectiveness in developing students' scientific skills and understanding of neuroendocrinology.

Main Methods:

• Students conducted ovariectomies and hormone implants (sham, estradiol, testosterone) in rats.
• Five experiments were performed: sexual behavior, spatial learning (Morris Water Maze), sexually dimorphic nucleus size, NMDA receptor phosphorylation, and long-term potentiation.
• Data were analyzed statistically, and results were summarized in journal-style reports.

Main Results:

• The lab project generated statistically significant data.
• Students reported improved abilities in formulating scientific questions, understanding complex interdisciplinary problems, summarizing scientific literature, and writing reports using data.

Conclusions:

• An extended lab project effectively engages students in neuroscience topics.
• This project enhances students' practical skills and fosters the development of neuroscientist habits.