We have been discussing the central dogma in BIT 295. Tonight, I was curious about the ASMCUE recorded session entitled “Doing Central Dogma: Active Learning Activity for Molecular Biology of Gene Expression.” The presenter, Sarah Shoemaker from North County Community College, had a unique setup: they presented with a chalkboard with “DNA –> RNA –> Protein” with transcription and translation between the steps and text appearing. The video was very well edited. The presenter then encourages participants to work with a paper representation of DNA. Students are encouraged to make observations. The laminated DNA strand is held together with a paper towel with hydrogen bonds drawn in. Then, there is a kit with scissors labeled helicase to cut the paper towel. RNA polymerase is represented by tweezers used to get A, G, C… and now Us! Students work in pairs finding the correct nucleotides. The mRNA template is a strip of paper with double-sided tape. After the mRNA is synthesized, another package is opened with tools to synthesize a polypeptide with tRNAs and amino acids. Students “charge” tRNAs that have Velcro with amino acids. tRNA with complementary anticodons are then placed to start creating a poly peptide chain. At the end, students check their protein with the instructor and then recycle the amino acids. Students dispose of the RNA. Shoemaker spoke about the importance of physically going through the steps and recycling amino acids… and emphasizing the short-lived RNA. I wonder how many kits, Shoemaker has created. A lot of work is involved in the creation of the kits. I do think the physical activity has an impact and helps identify misconceptions. This week the core molecular biology class did an activity on Sanger DNA sequencing and people seemed to enjoy it.
