We successfully integrated the software into a course for a small class (27 students) using either a hybrid or on-line learning format. For a full description of how we managed the course, click here.

For a description of the software’s Student Learning Objectives / Desired Outcomes, click here.

The following suggestions offer tips and ideas on how to integrate the software into a collegiate course. A course management system would be helpful, but is not required.

            Tips for software integration into a course:

1. It is very important that the syllabus specify which modules will be covered during which weeks. A schedule of when each module is required to be completed keeps students “on-time” and “on-track”.

2. The first class should discuss computer requirements, such as:

• Software / hardware minimum requirements
• If the web version of the course is used:
• How to install Authorware web player.
• How to access the software from a home or networked computer.

3. For a face-to-face course format:

• Students would cover the specified module on his / her own time.
• For class sessions, students could be required to bring 3 questions based on the module to class for general discussion; OR
• The instructor could launch a general discussion by posing questions to the students.
• In a small group setting, the entire class could serve as a “study group”, asking their questions and discussing them. Students could take turns moderating the discussion.
• In a larger group setting, the class could be broken into smaller study groups where they would discuss their questions. After a period of time, the instructor could call upon several groups to present a question and the answer before the entire class.
• Interesting questions could also serve as research assignments for the next class.

4. For a Hybrid or “On-Line” Distance Learning Course format:

• Students would cover the specified module on his / her own time.
• To keep students on-time and on-track, students could be required to post 3 questions and answer 2 different classmates questions each week in a discussion or chat board;
• OR students could be required complete on-line tests as weekly assignments, with the questions derived from a pool of questions. Since students would have free access to the software (to research answers for the questions), the goal is to encourage the students to utilize and learn from the software.

5. Ideas for  course projects / activities:

• Use of a blog to emphasize the use of the scientific method as a strategy to solve various types of problems:  Students could be required to use a blog where each student shares how they applied the scientific method to a relevant problem. Students could be required to submit one blog entry every 3-4 weeks.
• Groups of students could be given a pharmaceutical biotechnology problem or issue that requires research and critical analysis to solve. Groups could present their findings to the class.