Peer Review

PCR Virtual Lab

Material Detail page

Reviewed:: Nov 16, 2018 by Biology

Bookmark

Ratings

Overall Rating:

Content Quality:

Effectiveness:

Ease of Use:

Overview:

This concise, easy to use virtual lab from Learn Genetics is a great way to introduce students to PCR. The simulation takes users step by step through the reactions, describing the amplification process is sufficient detail. This virtual lab would be a great pre-activity to a standard PCR lab exercise or can be used as a lab alternative. It is appropriate for AP biology students as well as introductory college biology students.

Type of Material:

Simulation.

Recommended Uses:

As homework, a pre-lab activity, or a lab alternative in class.

Technical Requirements:

Web Browser.

Flash required.

Identify Major Learning Goals:

To learn how to use PCR to copy genetic material.

To learn laboratory techniques associated with PCR.

Target Student Population:

AP biology, Introductory college biology.

Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:

Basic knowledge of DNA, DNA replication, and standard lab tools and techniques. Knowing how to use a micropipettor would be useful.

Content Quality

Rating:

Strengths:

Accurate and detailed description of PCR.
Animations are used to visualize the steps of the reaction inside the thermal cycler.
Clearn and easy to understand information accompanies each step of the reaction.
The simulation is engaging.

Concerns:

The thermal cycler could be explained more fully

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating:

Strengths:

Includes background information about the reagents.
The lab is interactive - each step requires an action on the part of the user.
Animations help users understand how genetic material is amplified.
Sound effects enhance the engagement with the simulation

Concerns:

No learning objectives are included.
More information could be included discussing applications of PCR.
Some of the sound effects seem odd (e.g. a low drum sound when ejecting a pipette tip)

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating:

Strengths:

Users can navigate both forward and backward during the simulation.
Easy to use.

Concerns:

Consider adding narration to enhance accessibility.

Other Issues and Comments:

Some typos are present, so some further copy editing would be warranted. For example:

"The DNA polymerase that's most often used in PCR comes from a strain of bacteria calledThermus aquaticus that live in..." [should be "lives" and there should be a space before Thermus]

"...PCR reactionA's..." [Add space]

Creative Commons: