An RNA Research-based Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory Course: Design, Implementation, and Outcomes

Inquiry-based experiments are traditionally used in biochemistry laboratory courses to teach students a variety of biochemical concepts and techniques. These laboratory experiments are often completed in multi-week modules, with each module focusing on specific student learning outcomes. In this context, students often struggle to make connections between modules. Integration of an authentic research experience into these courses allows students to master specific learning outcomes in the broader context of a course-long research project. A three-credit research-based advanced biochemistry laboratory course was designed and implemented at Fort Lewis College. The course goals were to introduce students to modern nucleic acid biochemistry techniques and improve their abilities to communicate complex biochemical topics in written and oral form. In this course, students explored the structure and function of the human t-cell leukemia virus (HTLV) frameshift site RNAs. Teams of three to four students worked on three related research projects throughout the semester. The first part of the course introduced students to the background of the research topic and basic principles of molecular cloning, in vitro transcription, and RNA purification. Students designed RNA constructs to answer specific questions related to their research topic. These RNAs would ultimately be in vitro transcribed, purified, and used in experiments. Students regularly submitted formal research reports and gave oral presentations on their work. Progress towards achievement of course learning goals was monitored with formative and summative assessments. Students made substantial progress towards achievement of these goals and anonymous post-semester feedback was overwhelming positive.