“Modern Techniques in Genetic Engineering” Project- Based Education in Plant Biotechnology: A Unique Approach

Ayrapetov, Marina (A) Longo, Chip (A) Hague, Joel (A) Powell, Jessica (A) Budziszek, Michael (A) Neill, Alissa (A) Luo, Hong (A) Chandlee, Joel (A) Kausch, Albert (A)
Affiliations: (A): University of Rhode Island

In this unique course, each student receives their own gene construct to introduce and evaluate in transgenic crop plants of interest. These constructs are the basis for real world research projects established with university collaborators from Yale, Cornell, the Salk Institute, Washington University and the University of Rhode Island. In the beginning of the fall semester students are introduced to the theory and practice of gene transfer in plants. Cereal crops rice and turf grass species are utilized during this process. In the second semester, the students return and conduct the molecular and gene expression analysis of these transgenics. Their results may play potential roles in answering questions concerning basic plant biology and practical agricultural biotechnology. In the first offering of this course we included twelve undergraduates, one graduate student, four high school teachers and fifteen high school students. The results from the first year were published as abstracts and presented to the 2003 ASPB meetings in Honolulu, Hawaii. Thus, it became evident that the time commitment on the part of the 17 students was extremely demanding. In the second offering this year we have included 42 undergraduate interns who are mentored by six graduate students in the class and receive course credit. In addition to interns, we have also included high school teachers and 20 high school students in the laboratory. The students learn science by actually doing it; as well as other qualities of effective scientists such as patience, persistence, perseverance, attention to detail, responsibility, and record keeping. This approach drives interest in underlying fundamentals through current and advanced technologies while providing real incentive for motivated individuals.