Utilization of an interdisciplinary case study on vision to enhance student learning at the interface of biology and physics

As undergraduates become the biomedical research scientists of the future, they will need to be prepared to work as members of interdisciplinary teams. At Hope College, we are working to better prepare our undergraduates for this future by incorporating interdisciplinary case studies in our science courses. One such case study is on the physics of vision, which is being used in introductory biology and physics classes. Students are asked to compare the focusing systems of the nautilus, scallops, and humans by using optic benches to explore the physics of pinholes, mirrors and lenses. In addition, students are asked to make recommendations on ways in which visual acuity, light sensitivity, or color range can be enhanced using a genetic engineering approach. Students demonstrated a good understanding of the physics and biology of vision in their reports and exams. Students reported significant gains in confidence in their ability and willingness to approach problems from more than one scientific perspective, in their appreciation of the importance of physics in understanding biological functions, and in their awareness of the complexity of scientific problems. Interdisciplinary case studies have the potential to help better prepare our students for future work as biomedical scientists but require a substantial time investment by faculty and a willingness to work outside of one's area of training. Supported by HHMI.