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Randa L, Wang S, Poolos Z, Figueroa V, Bridgeman A, Bussey T, Sung RJ. Exploring Undergraduate Biochemistry Students' Gesture Production Through an Embodied Framework. CBE LIFE SCIENCES EDUCATION 2024; 23:ar16. [PMID: 38620007 PMCID: PMC11235103 DOI: 10.1187/cbe.23-06-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Interpreting three-dimensional models of biological macromolecules is a key skill in biochemistry, closely tied to students' visuospatial abilities. As students interact with these models and explain biochemical concepts, they often use gesture to complement verbal descriptions. Here, we utilize an embodied cognition-based approach to characterize undergraduate students' gesture production as they described and interpreted an augmented reality (AR) model of potassium channel structure and function. Our analysis uncovered two emergent patterns of gesture production employed by students, as well as common sets of gestures linked across categories of biochemistry content. Additionally, we present three cases that highlight changes in gesture production following interaction with a 3D AR visualization. Together, these observations highlight the importance of attending to gesture in learner-centered pedagogies in undergraduate biochemistry education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lora Randa
- Department of Biology, Carleton College, Northfield, MN, 55057
| | - Song Wang
- Department of Mathematics and Science Education, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182
- Department of Mathematics and Science Education, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093
| | - Zoe Poolos
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Carleton College, Northfield, MN, 55057
| | - Vanna Figueroa
- Department of Biology, Carleton College, Northfield, MN, 55057
| | - Anna Bridgeman
- Department of Biology, Carleton College, Northfield, MN, 55057
| | - Thomas Bussey
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093
| | - Rou-Jia Sung
- Department of Biology, Carleton College, Northfield, MN, 55057
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Costabile M, Simpson B, Turkanovic J, Hughes BP. Enhancing teaching effectiveness in biochemistry labs: Author reflections and improvement strategies. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION : A BIMONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL UNION OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38813829 DOI: 10.1002/bmb.21842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
This article details the outcome of a joint reflective approach undertaken by the authors to identify common difficulties experienced by 2nd-year undergraduate Biochemistry students in laboratory classes. Difficulties experienced in laboratories can affect the development of hand skills, an understanding of how to correctly operate laboratory equipment and the linkage between didactic content and their experimental demonstration. These difficulties covered were identified based on their common appearance across multiple cohorts and are grouped into five broad areas. The context of the laboratory exercises is detailed and the common difficulties experienced by students are outlined. The potential causes of these difficulties are then discussed along with the approaches and strategies that were implemented to help resolve future occurrences. The approach and resources developed to address these difficulties may help other Biochemistry educators who are facing similar experiences with their undergraduate students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Costabile
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Bradley Simpson
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Jasmina Turkanovic
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Bernard P Hughes
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
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Vardar-Ulu D, Ragab SE, Agrawal S, Dutta S. Using augmented reality in molecular case studies to enhance biomolecular structure-function explorations in undergraduate classrooms. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY & BIOLOGY EDUCATION 2024:e0001924. [PMID: 38624224 DOI: 10.1128/jmbe.00019-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Molecular case studies (MCSs) are open educational resources that use a storytelling approach to engage students in biomolecular structure-function explorations, at the interface of biology and chemistry. Although MCSs are developed for a particular target audience with specific learning goals, they are suitable for implementation in multiple disciplinary course contexts. Detailed teaching notes included in the case study help instructors plan and prepare for their implementation in diverse contexts. A newly developed MCS was simultaneously implemented in a biochemistry and a molecular parasitology course at two different institutions. Instructors participating in this cross-institutional and multidisciplinary implementation collaboratively identified the need for quick and effective ways to bridge the gap between the MCS authors' vision and the implementing instructor's interpretation of the case-related molecular structure-function discussions. Augmented reality (AR) is an interactive and engaging experience that has been used effectively in teaching molecular sciences. Its accessibility and ease-of-use with smart devices (e.g., phones and tablets) make it an attractive option for expediting and improving both instructor preparation and classroom implementation of MCSs. In this work, we report the incorporation of ready-to-use AR objects as checkpoints in the MCS. Interacting with these AR objects facilitated instructor preparation, reduced students' cognitive load, and provided clear expectations for their learning. Based on our classroom observations, we propose that the incorporation of AR in MCSs can facilitate its successful implementation, improve the classroom experience for educators and students, and make MCSs more broadly accessible in diverse curricular settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Swati Agrawal
- University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Shuchismita Dutta
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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Romare C, Skär L. The use of smart glasses in nursing education: A scoping review. Nurse Educ Pract 2023; 73:103824. [PMID: 37924651 DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2023.103824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this scoping review was to give an overview of the usability and feasibility of smart glasses in nursing education. In addition, this study will highlight nursing students' experiences of using smart glasses in learning situations. BACKGROUND Healthcare is becoming increasingly complex and technological and so is nursing education. Technology enhanced learning aims to enhance the teaching-learning process through use of technology, for example through smart glasses. DESIGN AND METHODS A literature review using a scoping review methodology was conducted. Qualitative content analysis was performed to analyse data. 14 references were included in the analysis. References were found using the databases PubMed, SCOPUS and ERIC. RESULTS The analysis resulted in three categories; (1) Situations in which smart glasses have been used in nursing education, (2) Learning experiences from using smart glasses in nursing education, and (3) User experiences from using smart glasses in nursing education. Smart glasses were used in different learning situations and were in general positively evaluated by nursing students. Although, drawbacks of using smart glasses were noted which could negatively effect student learning. CONCLUSIONS Smart glasses have been used in a variety of learning situations in nursing education and enabled new learning situations. Students found smart glasses beneficial for their learning and smart glasses motivated and engaged students in the learning situation. Although, this was both user- and situation dependent. Technical issues could cause students to lose focus and there is need for technical support to facilitate the learning curve. By learning from others' experiences unnecessary drawbacks can be avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Romare
- Blekinge Institute of Technology, Department of Health, Karlskrona 371 50, Sweden.
| | - Lisa Skär
- Blekinge Institute of Technology, Department of Health, Karlskrona 371 50, Sweden
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Agrawal S, Austin S. An idea to explore: Augmented reality and LEGO® brick modeling in the biochemistry and cell biology classroom-two tactile ways to teach biomolecular structure-Function. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION : A BIMONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL UNION OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 51:439-445. [PMID: 37022094 DOI: 10.1002/bmb.21734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
We present here two accessible ways for enhanced understanding of complex biological structures and their function in undergraduate Biology and Biochemistry classrooms. These methods can be applied for in-class instruction as well as for remote lessons, as they are cheap, easily available and easy to implement. LEGO® bricks and MERGE CUBE based augmented reality can be applied to make three-dimensional representation for any structure available on PDB. We envisage these techniques to be useful for students when visualizing simple stereochemical problems or complex pathway interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Agrawal
- Department of Biology, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Shane Austin
- Department of Biological & Chemical Sciences, The University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus, Bridgetown, Barbados
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Grad P, Przeklasa-Bierowiec AM, Malinowski KP, Witowski J, Proniewska K, Tatoń G. Application of HoloLens-based augmented reality and three-dimensional printed anatomical tooth reference models in dental education. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2022. [PMID: 36524288 DOI: 10.1002/ase.2241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Tooth anatomy is fundamental knowledge used in everyday dental practice to reconstruct the occlusal surface during cavity fillings. The main objective of this project was to evaluate the suitability of two types of anatomical tooth reference models used to support reconstruction of the occlusal anatomy of the teeth: (1) a three-dimensional (3D)-printed model and (2) a model displayed in augmented reality (AR) using Microsoft HoloLens. The secondary objective was to evaluate three aspects impacting the outcome: clinical experience, comfort of work, and other variables. The tertiary objective was to evaluate the usefulness of AR in dental education. Anatomical models of crowns of three different molars were made using cone beam computed tomography image segmentation, printed with a stereolithographic 3D-printer, and then displayed in the HoloLens. Each participant reconstructed the occlusal anatomy of three teeth. One without any reference materials and two with an anatomical reference model, either 3D-printed or holographic. The reconstruction work was followed by the completion of an evaluation questionnaire. The maximum Hausdorff distances (Hmax) between the superimposed images of the specimens after the procedures and the anatomical models were then calculated. The results showed that the most accurate but slowest reconstruction was achieved with the use of 3D-printed reference models and that the results were not affected by other aspects considered. For this method, the Hmax was observed to be 630 μm (p = 0.004). It was concluded that while AR models can be helpful in dental anatomy education, they are not suitable replacements for physical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Grad
- Department of Integrated Dentistry, Institute of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna M Przeklasa-Bierowiec
- Department of Integrated Dentistry, Institute of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Krzysztof P Malinowski
- Department of Bioinformatics and Telemedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Jan Witowski
- Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Klaudia Proniewska
- Department of Bioinformatics and Telemedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Tatoń
- Department of Biophysics, Chair of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
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Sakshuwong S, Weir H, Raucci U, Martínez TJ. Bringing chemical structures to life with augmented reality, machine learning, and quantum chemistry. J Chem Phys 2022; 156:204801. [DOI: 10.1063/5.0090482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Visualizing 3D molecular structures is crucial to understanding and predicting their chemical behavior. However, static 2D hand-drawn skeletal structures remain the preferred method of chemical communication. Here, we combine cutting-edge technologies in augmented reality (AR), machine learning, and computational chemistry to develop MolAR, an open-source mobile application for visualizing molecules in AR directly from their hand-drawn chemical structures. Users can also visualize any molecule or protein directly from its name or protein data bank ID and compute chemical properties in real time via quantum chemistry cloud computing. MolAR provides an easily accessible platform for the scientific community to visualize and interact with 3D molecular structures in an immersive and engaging way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukolsak Sakshuwong
- Department of Management Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Hayley Weir
- Stanford PULSE Institute, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, California 94025, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Umberto Raucci
- Stanford PULSE Institute, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, California 94025, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Todd J. Martínez
- Stanford PULSE Institute, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, California 94025, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA
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Innovative Teacher Education with the Augmented Reality Device Microsoft HoloLens—Results of an Exploratory Study and Pedagogical Considerations. MULTIMODAL TECHNOLOGIES AND INTERACTION 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/mti5080045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Augmented Reality (AR) tools are increasingly finding their way into education settings. Although their use is still not widespread in educational contexts, the research literature indicates their potential and effectiveness. However, overall and specifically for the education sector there are still numerous research gaps. This study investigates how the use of head-mounted AR displays such as the Microsoft HoloLens can change learning and what needs to be considered from a didactic perspective. The researched sample consists of 18 student teachers with a nature and technology teaching profile of a German-speaking university of teacher education. The data collection included a written questionnaire, video recordings of a teaching unit with HoloLens examining molecular structures, and one-to-one semi-structured interviews. The results of questionnaires and interviews presented in this paper show that all students were highly motivated to work with this technology in teacher education. The usability of the HoloLens was rated very satisfactory, although many students expressed minor problems. Most students attributed a positive impact on learning to the AR device and stated that the usage of the devices increased their motivation for learning the topic. Overall, the results show that the use of AR in teacher education is considered very valuable and should be increasingly employed in the future.
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Phankingthongkum S, Limpanuparb T. A virtual alternative to molecular model sets: a beginners' guide to constructing and visualizing molecules in open-source molecular graphics software. BMC Res Notes 2021; 14:66. [PMID: 33597010 PMCID: PMC7887714 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-021-05461-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The application of molecular graphics software as a simple and free alternative to molecular model sets for introductory-level chemistry learners is presented. RESULTS Based on either Avogadro or IQmol, we proposed four sets of tasks for students, building basic molecular geometries, visualizing orbitals and densities, predicting polarity of molecules and matching 3D structures with bond-line structures. These topics are typically covered in general chemistry for first-year undergraduate students. Detailed step-by-step procedures are provided for all tasks for both programs so that instructors and students can adopt one of the two programs in their teaching and learning as an alternative to molecular model sets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siripreeya Phankingthongkum
- Science Division, Mahidol University International College, Mahidol University, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand
| | - Taweetham Limpanuparb
- Science Division, Mahidol University International College, Mahidol University, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170 Thailand
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Meng FH, Zhu ZH, Lei ZH, Zhang XH, Shao L, Zhang HZ, Zhang T. Feasibility of the application of mixed reality in mandible reconstruction with fibula flap: A cadaveric specimen study. JOURNAL OF STOMATOLOGY, ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY 2021; 122:e45-e49. [PMID: 33434746 DOI: 10.1016/j.jormas.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, a new technology, mixed reality (MR), has emerged and surpassed the limitations of augmented reality (AR) with its inability to interact with hologram. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of the application of MR in mandible reconstruction with fibula flap. METHODS Computed tomography (CT) examination was performed for one cadaveric mandible and ten fibula bones. Using professional software Proplan CMF 3.0 (Materialize, Leuven, Belgium), we created a defected mandibular model and simulated the reconstruction design with these 10 fibula bones. The surgical plans were transferred to the HoloLens. We used HoloLens to guide the osteotomy and shaping of the fibular bone. After fixing the fibular segments using the Ti template, all segments underwent a CT examination. Before and after objects were compared for measurements of the location of fibular osteotomies, angular deviation of fibular segments, and intergonial angle distances. RESULTS The mean location of the fibular osteotomies, angular deviation of the fibular segments, and intergonial angle distances were 2.11 ± 1.31 mm, 2.85°± 1.97°, and 7.24 ± 3.42 mm, respectively. CONCLUSION The experimental results revealed that slight deviations remained in the accuracy of fibular osteotomy. With the further development of technology, it has the potential to improve the efficiency and precision of the reconstructive surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- F H Meng
- Chinese PLA General Hospital, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 100853, Beijing, China
| | - Z H Zhu
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Z H Lei
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - X H Zhang
- Shenzhen Luohu Hospital Group Luohu People's Hospital, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 518020, Shenzhen, China
| | - L Shao
- Beijing Institute of Technology, Optoelectronic College, 100081, Beijing, China
| | - H Z Zhang
- Chinese PLA General Hospital, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 100853, Beijing, China.
| | - T Zhang
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 100730, Beijing, China.
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