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DNA Structure 1.0

Reviewed:	Jul 08, 2005 by Biology Editorial Board
Overview:	Part of a larger collection of three-dimensional, interactive animations called Molecules in Motion. This extensive collection of tutorials allows students to critically analyze three dimensional structure of DNA.
Target Student Population:	High school and undergraduate
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:	Basic genetics and biochemistry
Type of Material:	Tutorial
Recommended Uses:	Out of class tutorial or in-class demonstration
Technical Requirements:	You will need Netscape Communicator 4.X, preferably 4.6 or 4.7, or Netscape Navigator 4.x. Warning: Internet Explorer is not suitable for these tutorials, and will not display the tutorials properly. Do not use Internet Explorer. Chime must also be downloaded.

Rating:

Strengths:

Well designed with current and accurate animations and tutorials.
Very well written descriptions of the images the students are allowed to
manipulate. Each animation illustrates key concepts being discussed in the
accompanying text.
Molecules are easy to manipulate/dissect, and buttons used for various views
are clearly laid out.
Information is divided up in a logical and easy to follow manner.
Excellent graphics and animations. Would be very useful for a student alone,
or in a lecture.

Concerns:

Rating:

Strengths:

If one has Internet access, a great way to demonstrate molecular structure instead of using transparencies and/or drawings on the chalkboard.
Drag and move Chime program offers excellent interactivity and is a great way
to demonstrate key molecular features.
Excellent way for students to visualize and manipulate molecules on their own.
A good supplement to a text or used as a stand-alone module.
Highly interactive.
Would be possible to write questions based upon material in tutorial.
Animations help illustrate difficult concepts.

Concerns:

It would be nice to link the tutorials to some example problems or questions. These often force students to critically analyze a structure in more detail.

Rating:

Strengths:

Easy to navigate and quick, without any defective links or bugs.
Clear index on the first page allows for quick access to tutorials.
Tutorials are well organized and explained clearly.
Tutorial all work well as stand-alone exercises.
Some tutorials tie-in with texts such as Stryer and Lehninger. This provides
students using these texts with hands-on experience with the concepts discussed
in the text.

Concerns:

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