Real-Lab-Day as an innovative approach to optimize and validate laboratory protocols for higher education practical...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology Education
• Active Learning Methodologies
• Scientific Skill Development

Background:

• The Real-Lab-Day methodology integrates theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory experience in undergraduate microbiology.
• This study reassesses its educational impact a decade after implementation and explores protocol optimization potential.
• Active learning strategies are crucial for enhancing scientific understanding and engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term educational impact of the Real-Lab-Day active learning methodology.
• To assess its effectiveness in consolidating theoretical knowledge and developing practical skills.
• To explore the methodology's utility in optimizing experimental microbiology protocols.

Main Methods:

• Undergraduate students engaged in authentic laboratory experiments supervised by graduate mentors.
• Formative questionnaires assessed student perceptions of learning, engagement, and motivation.
• The methodology was applied to optimize a bacterial pathogenicity protocol using enteroinvasive Escherichia coli (EIEC).

Main Results:

• Sustained student approval of the Real-Lab-Day methodology was observed.
• The approach effectively consolidated theoretical knowledge and developed practical/cognitive skills.
• The methodology successfully optimized a bacterial invasion and dissemination protocol.
• Student interest in microbiological research was significantly fostered.

Conclusions:

• Real-Lab-Day is a multifunctional pedagogical strategy effectively bridging teaching and research.
• It enhances student learning experiences and validates experimental protocols for practical classes.
• The methodology aligns with modern higher education practices and offers potential for future educational research.