Dance of the Chromosomes: A Kinetic Learning Approach to Mitosis and Meiosis

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-2007

Department

Biological Sciences

School

Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences

Abstract

Understanding mitosis and meiosis is fundamental to understanding the basics of Mendelian inheritance, yet many students find these concepts challenging or confusing. Here we present a visually and physically stimulating activity using minimal supplies to supplement traditional instruction in order to engage the students and facilitate understanding and retention of these concepts. This kinesthetic activity has students modeling the events of mitosis and meiosis by acting as human chromosomes. This exercise has been used in a sophomore level genetics class at a state university, but it should also be suitable for high school and introductory college classes. Anon-line survey was used as an assessment of transfer of knowledge, and this also allowed students the opportunity to comment on this exercise as a learning experience. While it was difficult to be quantitative in our evaluation of learning, student responses to the survey overwhelmingly characterized the exercise as advancing their ability to understand or visualize the processes of mitosis and meiosis.

Publication Title

Bioscene: Journal of College Biology Teaching

Volume

33

Issue

1

First Page

6

Last Page

10

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS