ERIC Number: EJ1011749
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013-Mar
Pages: 5
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0047-231X
EISSN: N/A
Utility of Self-Made Crossword Puzzles as an Active Learning Method to Study Biochemistry in Undergraduate Education
Coticone, Sulekha Rao
Journal of College Science Teaching, v42 n4 p33-39 Mar 2013
To incorporate an active learning component in a one-semester biochemistry course, students were asked to create crossword puzzles using key concepts. Student observations on the use of self-made crossword puzzles as an active-learning instructional tool were collected using a 5-point Likert survey at the end of the semester. A majority of the students felt that the crossword puzzles enhanced their learning of biochemical concepts. Constructing their own crosswords contributed to a positive experience by allowing the students to better engage in the learning experience. In addition, multiple-choice questions using clues from the crossword puzzles were also incorporated into the final examinations. Therefore, self-made crossword puzzles offer a simple and creative way to incorporate active learning into a number of courses in the biochemistry curriculum. (Contains 1 table and 2 figures.)
Descriptors: Active Learning, Biochemistry, Science Instruction, College Science, Puzzles, Undergraduate Students, Undergraduate Study, Student Attitudes, Likert Scales, Student Surveys, Scientific Concepts, Learner Engagement, Multiple Choice Tests, Grades (Scholastic), Student Motivation
National Science Teachers Association. 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000. Tel: 800-722-6782; Fax: 703-243-3924; e-mail: membership@nsta.org; Web site: http://www.nsta.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A