Undergraduate Performance in Solving Ill-Defined Biochemistry Problems

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry Education
• Scientific Skill Assessment

Background:

• Growing interest in assessing scientific process skills.
• Need for effective measurement of higher-order learning in science.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate scientific problem-solving performance of graduating biochemistry majors.
• Validate and apply the Individual Problem Solving Assessment (IPSA).

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods study using multiple versions of the IPSA.
• Quantitative and qualitative analysis of student responses.
• Administered to graduating biochemistry majors.

Main Results:

• Graduates succeeded in evaluating data and reflecting on solutions.
• Significant challenges identified in designing investigations aligned with hypotheses.
• Performance varied across the five IPSA domains.

Conclusions:

• Biochemistry graduates demonstrate specific strengths and weaknesses in scientific problem-solving.
• Identified areas for pedagogical improvement in science education.
• Results inform curriculum development for scientific inquiry skills.