Just as the unique pattern of bars in a universal product code (UPC) identifies each consumer product, a “DNA barcode” is a unique pattern of DNA sequence that identifies each living thing. Using tools developed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory's DNA Learning Center (DNALC), educators can engage their students in the process of science, using molecular biology, ecology, and bioinformatics to design and answer questions about biodiversity.
The DNALC has a longstanding commitment to simplifying complex biochemical and bioinformatics workflows for use in biology education. Our mitochondrial DNA sequencing service and BioServers analysis workflow (http://www.bioservers.org) was the first distributed project to allow students to analyze their own DNA sequences. Over 110,000 student sequences have been uploaded since the program’s inception in 1997, and the BioServers website has logged 1.6 million user sessions.
As educational lead for CyVerse (formerly iPlant Collaborative), NSF’s major cyber-infrastructure for life sciences, the DNALC formally moved into the world of biological big data. Since 2010, DNALC staff have introduced CyVerse tools to 1,700 researchers and college educators at 2-day workshops conducted around the U.S. Under this project the DNALC also developed DNA Subway, an educational interface to bioinformatics workflows – including DNA barcode data analysis. Compementing these bioinformatics tools, the DNALC has also developed streamlined biochemistry and a sample database for student DNA barcoding research.
Meeting the need for authentic research experiences, students can use the same tools and data as seasoned biologists to: 1) design their own research questions 2) sample organisms and collect metadata; 3) isolate DNA and amplify barcoding regions; 4) submit DNA for sequencing; 4) process and analyze sequences; and 5) use sequences to study phylogenetics, diversity, and evolution. Students use simple, affordable DNA isolation protocols and the DNALC's online analysis tools as they discover novel barcodes and track biodiversity - results that they can enter into the project database and publish. These scalable hands-on experiments and participation in a global biodiversity initiative immerse students in the process of science, providing relevance and ownership that enhance learning and attitudes towards science.
The poster will summarize the DNALC's efforts to introduce student DNA barcoding to diverse students, the results of these student efforts, and the effect on student learning and attitudes toward science and science careers.