ACUE Portfolio | Christin Bendorf | Biology| Developing Effective Modules and Microlectures - Final

 

BIO 39-06: BIO39 Microbiology -Allied Health Students - SECTION 06

 

Reflection on Instructional Change:

I implemented chunking material using microlectures presented in weekly modules. Weekly modules included an overview listing each topic within a quiz exercise. Students were provided outlines to fill in, review questions, and PowerPoint slides. I tried to provide opportunities for processing, retrieval, and application of the material learned using low point value quizzes (with infinite retakes and no time limits) and real-life applications of the material, along with HW assignments that typically required students to create tables or drawings. All assignments for the week were due on the same date. Since these changes were mid semester, they were introduced during a synchronous session with follow up to see if or where people were struggling and get feedback as to whether or not they wanted to continue with the new style. Additionally, email communications and an introduction video were used to walk them through the new layout prior to the first scheduled lecture. Lectures were scripted to streamline the material (75-minute lectures became 45-55 minutes) allowing students time to repeat videos as necessary and take quizzes. I also maintained Zoom meetings during scheduled lecture for any questions that arose.

Student feedback has been positive regarding organization of modules and assessments immediately following the material which helped them know what they should take away from the videos. Students felt more engaged with the active learning exercises and appreciated the flexibility and autonomy of asynchronous course work. The challenges initially were related to learning new technology and the time-consuming nature of scripting a talk. Student comments included “I really like the active learning",  "I feel I can pace myself better", and “I appreciate how organized this is”.

Each learning activity had value and while I could not implement all they will continue to influence the design of my courses. One of the key learning activties were the asynchronous discussion threads because they provided feedback and suggestions on how to implement topics. Also the the demonstration videos made topics more approachable and provided good examples on how to easily integrate some of the new learning techniques.   They discussion boards provided different perspectives on the observe and analyze videos - how they could be improved and what they noticed was done well. 

The observe and analyze session provided important feedback on how I implemented a topic and ideas on how to improve in the coming semesters. It was valueable to have colleagues recognize the work load required for modifications. The session was informative and provided examples of how diferent people implemented what they leanred.

 

First picture - Screen shot of Module 13 showing Miniquizzes which contain microlectures.  Second picture - Screen shot of Quiz 60 from Module 13 which shows the subtopics and duration of 4 videos on inflammation

Screen shot of quiz showing good concept understanding. Each Quiz contains 3-8 questions on the content with unlimited time and unlimited repeats. If a student struggles on a question they can rewatch the short miniquiz that covers the section they struggle with.

Microcredential Course Module Completion Badges

Practice and Reflect on: Developing Effective Modules and Microlectures Download Developing Effective Modules and Microlectures  (reflection guide uploaded here)

Faculty Biography

Dr. Christin Bendorf has worked as a lecturer for the Department of Biological Sciences at CSU Sacramento for 10 years. She has taught genetics (BIO 184), general microbiology (BIO 139), microbiology for allied health students (BIO 39), introduction to biology lab for non-majors (BIO 15L), advanced topics in immunology (BIO 149C), and biology a human perspective (BIO 20). She received her PhD in microbiology from UC Davis after earning a master's degree in biology at CSU Hayward (now East Bay) studying host pathogen interactions with viruses and bacteria, as well as antimicrobial resistance in bacteria.

 

This work was supported by  the Developing Hispanic Serving Institution Project INSPIRE