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Peer Review

Gonochek-II Test

Reviewed:
Feb 10, 2019 by Biology
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Ratings

Overall Rating: 4.8 stars
Content Quality: 5.0 stars
Effectiveness: 4.5 stars
Ease of Use: 4.8 stars
Overview:

The Gonochek-II test is used diagnostically to identify the pathogenic Neisseria species (N. gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis) in samples, distinguishing them from commensal Neisseria and the closely related Moraxella catarrhalis. This site provides information relating to this biochemical test including the purpose, mechanism, interpretation, and step-by-step instruction on how to implement the Gonochek-II test. Students are also permitted to attempt the simulation of the Gonochek-II test with the simulation supplied on this site. 

Type of Material:

This material is presented as a very well-done simulation.

Recommended Uses:

This learning material can be done in class, for homework, as a pre-lab, in groups, or individually.  It is a good site to use, particularly for laboratories not equipped to work with human pathogens.

Technical Requirements:

This site requires use of an Internet browser such as Google Chrome or Firefox that has the Java Flash Plugin enabled.

Identify Major Learning Goals:

This site provides information relating to this biochemical test including the purpose, mechanism, interpretation, and step-by-step instruction on how to implement the Gonochek-II test. Students will learn to do the tests in the simulation.

Target Student Population:

The targe student population includes High School, College General Education, College Lower Division, and College Upper Division.

Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:

Students will need basic computer navigational skills (enter URL, click and drag, etc.).  Background knowledge of the importance of the four Neisseria species included in the simulation would be helpful.  Otherwise, the interface is very user-friendly. No specific prerequisite knowledge required because the site allows students to read about necessary components before starting the simulation, although an understanding of enzyme activity would be useful.

Content Quality

Rating:
Strengths:
  • Clearly and accurately demonstrates each of the major steps of the process
  • Basic description of expected results is accurate
  • Clues are given to ensure the proper sequence of steps
Concerns:
  • No instructions given on how to manipulate the tools in the simulation; it may take user several tries just to figure that out

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating:
Strengths:
  • The simulation teaches students basic lab techniques without risk of working with actual human pathogens
  • The exercise could be easily integrated into homework, a prelab exercise, or used in an online environment
  • The exercise would be valuable for thiose institutions that do not have a lab suitable for human pathogen work
  • Students are informed when they make an error like doing something in the wrong order or trying to select a colony that is not isolated
  • The simulation can be repeated as many times as needed
Concerns:
  • More background information on the four species used in the simulation would be useful
  • Does not specifically identify prerequisite knowledge
  • No way to assess student learning/outcomes or to give a completion grade

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating:
Strengths:
  • High quality visual design
  • Directions for performing the tests are clear
  • The simulation worked through all steps without difficulty
  • Students will enjoy the actual ability to do the test once they are comfortable with the simulation procedures
Concerns:
  • No audio component for students with vision impairments
  • Need brief explanation on how to manipulate tools in the simulation
Other Issues and Comments:

Excellent simulation and a great addition to the MERLOT Collection!

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