DNA Barcoding for an Undergraduate Class

DNA technique is a topic mandatorily covered in a biology and biochemistry undergraduate curriculum. Inquiry-based pedagogy is proven to be the most effective way of learning, and DNA barcoding method allows to merge necessary-to-study experimental techniques such as DNA isolation and purification, PCR, and basic BLAST search into a two- or three-week inquiry-based student project. It also provides a research-based experience to the students, who, when organized in groups, can design their own DNA-barcoding project if they wish. Here, we describe how DNA barcoding can be offered in an undergraduate college or advanced high school settings. This chapter is intended to help college and high school instructors to include DNA barcoding in their classes.