DNAexplorer
DNAexplorer is a self-directed program that introduces students to the use of DNA sequences and sequence databases accessed through the internet.
An ability to access and analyse biologically relevant data is essential for biomedical scientists - there are few, if any, experiments undertaken these days that do not involve some element of online data analysis, ranging from literature and DNA sequence searches to 3D molecular modelling. However, even simple analysis tasks often require many different software packages and databases which need to be used in a coordinated manner.
Whilst biomedical students within The University of Melbourne are introduced to the basic principles of genetic sequence analysis in various lecture units and practical subjects, the lack of a suitable teaching resource means that they are often given little "hands on" exposure to the tools used in bioinformatics.
We have developed a self-directed and interactive program that situates students in a "Virtual Laboratory". Here they are presented with a microbiological problem, the solving of which will require a range of different types of analyses of nucleotide and protein sequences. The module is consolidated into a single, linear program that provids a clear navigation pathway through the relevant software and databases to enable undergraduate students to carry out the task with minimal supervision. The first of the four tutorials has been developed separately as a stand-alone introductory CD-based tutorial for use in secondary schools.
Curriculum Usage
DNAexplorer is currently used in third year of the science curriculum.
Project Screen Grabs
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Credits
Developed by the Biomedical Multimedia Unit in association with the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne.