Project Objectives

This project aimed at developing an interactive teaching strategy for a large class size (220–270 students) to learn Cell Biology.

Description of process, outcomes or deliverable

Since 2009, we have tested, developed and used multiple approaches in teaching large-class Cell Biology, including the use of clicker system, weekly online assessment via WebCT and problem-based learning. With the integration of multiple approaches and timely improvement of teaching strategies based on students’ feedback, we have worked out the major integrative approaches to be used in teaching the large-class Cell Biology course in coming years with updated modifications. We had shared these experiences in public workshops. We will further share our tools and experiences in a wider media in the future via free distribution and internet download for further improvement and other implementation.

Evaluation

To evaluate the effectiveness of this project, three surveys were conducted to collect students’ opinions and evaluations at the beginning, middle and end of the course so that teaching strategies or approaches could be changed or improved in a timely fashion. All these efforts have resulted in significant improvement of teaching and learning for this large-class Cell Biology course within three years.

Dissemination, diffusion and impact

We had presented two posters at the CUHK Teaching and Learning Innovation ExPo 2009 and 2011. One poster was received the Best Poster Award in 2009. We also shared our experiences at the TDG workshop organized by the Faculty of Science in May 2011. We will prepare and present another poster at the upcoming ExPo 2012 for sharing our experiences in teaching large class.