Preparing highly competent biochemists: the potential of the classroom

Success as a professional biochemist requires solid foundational understanding of biochemistry, ability to solve complex problems in biological systems, and the social and communication skills needed to thrive in an increasingly collaborative environment. Unlike most college biochemistry courses, which focus primarily on training students in foundational knowledge, biochemistry courses at Seattle University aim to help students develop all three of the essential skills described above using an approach called process oriented guided inquiry learning (POGIL). In this approach, instructor‐designed learning activities provide the content of the course, while a cooperative learning structure provides the content‐free procedures that promote development of critical process skills. This format enables students to initially explore a topic independently, work together in groups to construct and refine knowledge, and eventually develop deep understanding of essential concepts. These stages form the foundation for application to high level biochemical problems. Since switching to POGIL nine years ago, average grade point average has increased as compared to when the course was taught using lecture. At the end of this course, most students report feeling confident in their knowledge of biochemistry and report substantial gains in independence, critical thinking, and respect for others.