Implementing a web-based introductory bioinformatics course for non-bioinformaticians that incorporates practical...

Area of Science:

• Bioinformatics
• Biological Sciences Education

Background:

• Bioinformatics is crucial for modern biological sciences.
• Many biology students lack specialized bioinformatics training.
• There is a need for accessible bioinformatics education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an online bioinformatics course for non-bioinformaticians.
• To equip biology students with essential bioinformatics software and skills.
• To create an up-to-date, intuitive online learning experience.

Main Methods:

• Designed a fully online course (BIF-1901) at Université Laval.
• Course requires no prior bioinformatics or informatics background.
• Modules cover informatics, biological sequence analysis, and structural bioinformatics.

Main Results:

• The course, BIF-1901, was successfully developed and implemented.
• It offers practical exercises and an intuitive pedagogical framework.
• The curriculum addresses fundamental aspects of bioinformatics.

Conclusions:

• The online course effectively addresses the need for bioinformatics education among biology students.
• It provides a flexible and accessible learning platform.
• The course structure and content are suitable for a multidisciplinary, online format.