Case study: Biochemistry without borders: a case study utilising infographics.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry Education
• Digital Learning Tools
• Chemical Education

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated innovative online teaching strategies.
• Maintaining student engagement and active learning in science courses presented challenges.
• Digital tools were explored to facilitate remote education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate an online learning exercise using infographics.
• To foster active learning and peer feedback in undergraduate Biochemistry and General Chemistry.
• To assess student learning gains and digital skill development.

Main Methods:

• Undergraduate students created infographics on the four major biomolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids).
• Infographics were shared between the University of Roehampton and Hostos Community College for peer evaluation.
• The study focused on teaching strategies and challenges of digital tool implementation during the pandemic.

Main Results:

• Student feedback indicated positive learning gains in understanding biomolecule concepts.
• Learners reported improved ability to visualize and explain biochemical processes.
• The infographic exercise was well-received by students.

Conclusions:

• Online infographic assignments can effectively enhance learning of core biochemistry concepts.
• This active learning strategy promotes digital literacy and peer-to-peer education.
• The approach proved successful in engaging students and facilitating learning during remote instruction.