Teaching technical and professional skills using a laboratory exercise: A comparison of two methods of plasmid preparation

This laboratory exercise encourages upper level biochemistry students to build and expand upon previously developed laboratory skills and knowledge as they conduct a comparison of two methods of plasmid preparation based upon cost, quality of product, production time, and environmental impact. Besides creating an environment that mimics a more realistic practice of science, there are several key learning objectives. First, students will learn to effectively plan and manage time so that they can meet a scientific goal. A second objective is for them to learn to use theory as a basis for understanding new and different technology since classroom exposure is necessarily limited. Third, they will learn to think critically and logically to solve problems, and they will communicate this in written format. All of these skills are particularly important in preparation for a scientist's professional life.