| Reviewed: |
Dec 17, 2012 by Biology Editorial Board |
| Overview: |
This site contains a collection of 14 short, award-winning biomedical animations developed by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research. The animations are of exceptionally high quality and demonstrate in 3D a variety of topics from DNA transcription/translation to the malaria life cycle and insulin production. The visualizations are scientifically accurate and sophisticated yet also clear and accessible. However, many animations lack narration or written explanations and therefore may be best used as part of a lecture. |
| Learning Goals: |
The principal goal is to increase understanding of molecular and cellular processes that are difficult to visualize. In addition, students will appreciate the dynamic and three-dimensional nature of molecules and processes. |
| Target Student Population: |
These animations are appropriate for a wide audience including members of the general public interested in biology, high school students, undergraduate students, and students in pre-professional programs in health sciences |
| Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills: |
Some animations require basic knowledge of immunology including basic molecular and cellular terms; the non-narrated animations require prior knowledge of transcription and translation and cell biology |
| Type of Material: |
Collection of three-dimensional animations; some are narrated |
| Recommended Uses: |
This site could be used (1) in a class lecture to demonstrate a concept that is difficult to visualize when described with words, (2) in a science outreach demonstration (with authors’ permission) or (3) as a study aid for students |
| Technical Requirements: |
Requires QuickTime Player to view the animations and requires speakers to hear the narration. Animations ran equally well on Safari and Firefox |
