Designing Online Resources in Preparation for Authentic Laboratory Experiences.

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology Education
• Science Teacher Professional Development

Background:

• Active learning in science laboratories enhances teacher professional development.
• The role of online training materials in complementing traditional laboratory training remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the design of online training modules for teaching molecular biology.
• To assess user perception of these modules within a professional development "boot camp" for high school biology teachers.
• To understand how teachers integrate online materials into their learning and teaching.

Main Methods:

• Design and development of online molecular biology training modules.
• Implementation of modules as part of an intensive "boot camp" for 29 experienced high school biology teachers in Hawaii.
• Collection of user perception data on the online materials and their application in learning and teaching.

Main Results:

• Teachers provided opinions on the designed online molecular biology training modules.
• Participants reported on their utilization of online materials for personal learning and classroom instruction.
• The study gathered insights into the practical application of online resources in teacher professional development.

Conclusions:

• Online modules can serve as a valuable supplement to traditional laboratory training for science teachers.
• The developed modules were perceived positively by participating teachers, indicating potential for effective integration into professional development programs.
• This research provides a foundation for understanding how to best leverage online resources to enhance science education.