Cell Biology

Science and Art Communication

  • Overview of Labs

    • Each lab will provide descriptions of their activities.

    • Emphasis on creativity, such as illustrations using stick figures.

    • Collaboration will utilize AI tools.

  • Exams and Grading

    • Confirmed that exams are graded.

    • Discussion on graded exams raised a point about possible competition regarding AI-generated cover designs.

    • Examination structure includes multiple-choice questions, with some students failing to complete short-answer sections, which affected overall performance.

  • Technical Issues with Grade Posting

    • Instructor noted that grades are not visible to students on the learning management system (Canvas).

    • Possible solutions if the issue is not resolved by week’s end:

      • Create an Excel spreadsheet listing students alongside their grades for transparency.

    • Previous experiences shared regarding paper-based grading systems highlight concerns over privacy in sharing grades.

  • Instructor’s Background with Technical Issues

    • Mention of difficulties with inherited course materials and pre-existing technical problems, indicating frustration with the lack of resolution from technical support staff.

    • Instructor is seeking to rectify issues to improve student access to grades.

  • Examination Performance Analysis

    • Grades have shown a distribution with a significant cluster scoring 85 and above, indicating a general understanding.

    • There's recognition of a cluster of students needing improvement, particularly concerning short-answer responses, which were often left unanswered.

    • Instructor expressed a desire for more engagement with these short-answer questions, suggesting ease of grading and commitment to supporting student improvement.

  • Future Exam Preparation

    • Planning for the next examination scheduled in approximately two to two and a half weeks.

    • Additional practice for short-answer questions is intended to prepare students more effectively.

    • Homework assignments will be released again for review and further understanding.

    • Grading method adjusted:

      • Assignments are now downloaded as editable PDF files where the instructor provides direct feedback marked up on the document for clarity.

  • Discussion on Cell Biology

    • Introduction to the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells:

      • Eukaryotic cells contain organelles and a true nucleus, unlike prokaryotic cells.