Implementing inquiry based computational modeling curriculum in the secondary science classroom

textBetter visualization of micro-level structures and processes can greatly enhance student understanding of key biological functions such as the central dogma. Previous research has demonstrated a need of introducing novel methods to increase student understanding of these concepts. The intention of this report is to show how computational modeling programs (CMPs) can be successfully used as an innovative method of teaching biology concepts that occur at a molecular level. The use of computers and web-based lessons are not new topics in secondary education studies but there is not an abundance of research related to computational modeling alone. We began by researching the many studies that have already indicated the benefits of using computers in the classroom with an emphasis on CMPs and simulations. Of these, we focused mostly on the ones that showed increased student engagement and influenced understanding of core science concepts. Based on the literature reviewed, a framework for curriculum designed around CMPs is proposed. Lastly, a model lesson is discussed to provide an example of how these professional grade tools can be employed in the classroom. This report provides a basis for the continued development of constructivist curriculum built around the use of professional grade computational tools in secondary science classrooms.Science and Mathematics Educatio

Reaction Rates in Chemistry: A Learning Segment Using the 5E/GRC Instructional Model

The following project utilizes the 5E Instructional Sequence and the Gather, Reason, Communicate Instructional Sequence to promote a single-cohesive learning segment. The content covered is that of chemical reactions specifically discussed in the Next Generation Science Standards as HS-PS1-5. Included are a literature review, the learning segment, materials, student prompts, and the rationale behind the various parts of the segment

Enhancing Free-text Interactions in a Communication Skills Learning Environment

Learning environments frequently use gamification to enhance user interactions.Virtual characters with whom players engage in simulated conversations often employ prescripted dialogues; however, free user inputs enable deeper immersion and higher-order cognition. In our learning environment, experts developed a scripted scenario as a sequence of potential actions, and we explore possibilities for enhancing interactions by enabling users to type free inputs that are matched to the pre-scripted statements using Natural Language Processing techniques. In this paper, we introduce a clustering mechanism that provides recommendations for fine-tuning the pre-scripted answers in order to better match user inputs

A new microfluidic method enabling the generation of multi-layered tissues-on-chips using skin cells as a proof of concept

Microfluidic-based tissues-on-chips (TOCs) have thus far been restricted to modelling simple epithelia as a single cell layer, but likely due to technical difficulties, no TOCs have been reported to include both an epithelial and a stromal component despite the biological importance of the stroma for the structure and function of human tissues. We present, for the first time, a novel approach to generate 3D multilayer tissue models in microfluidic platforms. As a proof of concept, we modelled skin, including a dermal and an epidermal compartment. To accomplish this, we developed a parallel flow method enabling the deposition of bilayer tissue in the upper chamber, which was subsequently maintained under dynamic nutrient flow conditions through the lower chamber, mimicking the function of a blood vessel. We also designed and built an inexpensive, easy-to-implement, versatile, and robust vinyl-based device that overcomes some of the drawbacks present in PDMS-based chips. Preliminary tests indicate that this biochip will allow the development and maintenance of multilayer tissues, which opens the possibility of better modelling of the complex cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions that exist in and between the epithelium and mesenchyme, allowing for better-grounded tissue modelling and drug screening.This work was supported by the "Programa de Actividades de I+D entre Grupos de Investigación de la Comunidad de Madrid" project S2018/BAA-4480, Biopieltec-CM and the Cátedra Fundación Ramón Areces

The Difference Between Grade 7 Female and Male Test Scores Based on One-to-One Technology Access: A Causal-Comparative Study

This causal-comparative study sought to determine whether there was a relationship between the use of one-to-one technology and student achievement among female and male students in Grades 6 and 7 in public schools in South Carolina. This study adds to the body of literature that indicates academic gains occur from using one-to-one devices in classrooms and that these didactic technology tools are beneficial to all students. The current study analyzed the science and social studies achievement scores of 3,747 Grade 7 students, comparing females and males who had access to one-to-one technology to those who did not during the 2016–2017 school year. The achievement scores came from the archived scores of the South Carolina Palmetto Assessment State Standards (SCPASS) tests in science and social studies. The study resulted in a rejection of the null hypotheses in favor of the alternative hypothesis that one-to-one technology had a statistically significant influence on test scores across all samples; however, with weak effect sizes, the practical significance of these results should be explored further. Recommendations for future research include conducting additional studies in more geographical areas, grade levels, and subjects and investigating the influence of distraction while using one-to-one technology

Development and Fabrication of Novel Woven Meshes as Bone Graft Substitutes for Critical Sized Defects

With more than $2.5 billion spent per year, and over 2.2 million procedures conducted annually worldwide, bone grafting continues to be a large part of the treatment strategy for large non-healing bone defects (critical-sized defects). However, complication rates (\u3e20%), donor shortage, and donor site morbidity have led to the promotion of bone tissue engineering as an important option in these cases. This work explored the use of a novel bio-loom to make woven polymeric meshes as viable bone tissue engineering scaffolds. Melt-spun poly-l-lactide and poly-l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone fibers were used to produce mesh with varying porosity, pore size, and cellular affinity. Fluid flow properties and cellular behaviors were characterized in a series of in vitro tests. Mesh with variable properties were effectively created and the modulation of mesh specifications resulted in significant differences in cell metabolic activity and deoxyribonucleic acid concentrations. Changes in mesh parameters also significantly effected mesh permeability. Additionally, an interactive camp was designed to investigate ways to encourage underrepresented minority middle school students to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers was conducted. Results showed that parental encouragement, the external STEM environment, and extracurricular STEM exposure were closely related to a student\u27s likelihood to express interest in a STEM career. Student interest in STEM careers significantly increased after participation in an interactive camp based on mesh-based modules. Further work explored the effect of early research experiences on the development of research identity for underrepresented minority science and engineering undergraduates. Results showed that students participating in this program significantly increased their research identity through increased self-recognition and competence in research activities