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Learning to karyotype in the university environment: a computer-based virtual laboratory class (KaryoLab) designed to rationalize time for the tutor/researcher and to encourage more students to engage in cytogenetics

Gibbons, Nicola J., Evans, C., Griffin, Darren K. (2003) Learning to karyotype in the university environment: a computer-based virtual laboratory class (KaryoLab) designed to rationalize time for the tutor/researcher and to encourage more students to engage in cytogenetics. Cytogenetic and Genome Research, 101 (1). pp. 1-4. ISSN 1424-8581. (doi:10.1159/000073409) (The full text of this publication is not currently available from this repository. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided) (KAR id:12475)

The full text of this publication is not currently available from this repository. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided.
Official URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1159/000073409

Abstract

The ability to karyotype G-banded chromosome preparations is an essential skill for chromosome biologists. For this reason, the teaching of the rudiments of G banding analysis forms an integral part of the curriculum in many biology and genetics degree courses. The way in which karyotyping is usually taught involves providing the students with a photograph of G-banded chromosomes, a pair of scissors and some glue from which they can cut out the chromosomes and build the karyotype. This has the disadvantage that large amounts of time are taken in cutting and pasting and comparatively little in learning pattern recognition of individual chromosomes. In this paper we describe the development of a computer-based student practical class "KaryoLab". To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a teaching tool that combines instruction in cytogenetic analysis with both formative and summative feedback to the student and a virtual elimination of marking time for the tutor. Chromosome research and diagnostics will only continue while there are sufficiently motivated and trained individuals to perform it. We see the software developed here as a significant step towards training and motivating students in cytogenetics.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1159/000073409
Additional information: 14571128 1424-859X
Uncontrolled keywords: Computer-Assisted Instruction Cytogenetics Humans Karyotyping Learning Research Students Teaching Time Factors Universities
Subjects: Q Science
Divisions: Divisions > Division of Natural Sciences > Biosciences
Depositing User: Darren Griffin
Date Deposited: 10 Sep 2008 09:45 UTC
Last Modified: 16 Nov 2021 09:50 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/12475 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

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