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Peer Review

DNA Extraction

Reviewed:
Feb 21, 2020 by Biology
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Ratings

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

DNA extraction from plant tissue can be carried out by developing some steps common to different plant species. The function of each of these steps are described. Subsequently, the materials needed are presented. Last, the complete process is visualized using tomato leaves.

Type of Material:

Animation/video

Recommended Uses:

Best for lab use.  Too detailed and technical for classroom use of DNA extraction principles, but excellent for teaching plant DNA extraction in the lab.

Technical Requirements:

The resource is accessible with most Internet browsers. Chrome works well.

Identify Major Learning Goals:

Users of this resource will learn the step-by-step process of extracting DNA from plant materials and understand the reason for using certain reagents and doing certain steps.

Target Student Population:

High School, College General Ed, College Lower Division, College Upper Division, Graduate School

Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:

Need knowledge of DNA, basic cell biology, and chemistry and biochemistry knowledge.  Also, knowledge of common lab skills and equiptment.

Content Quality

Rating:
Strengths:
  • The resource provides the learning objectives
  • Clear and concise
  • Provides complete and visual demonstration of the concept
  • Each step of the process is clearly shown and the reason for doing so is explained
  • At the time of this review, content of material is accurate and up to date
  • Quality of video is very good
  • The resource is self-contained and be used with other plant materials
Concerns:

Specific DNA protocol for plants, and concepts behind the techinques are not discussed. 

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating:
Strengths:
  • The resource provides the learning objectives
  • The steps described are easy to follow
  • The reason for using certain reagents and performing certain steps are explained
  • Narrations help users focus on key concepts
  • Material is engaging and interesting
Concerns:

Limited to a high level audience (graduate students, lab students), limited to plant DNA extraction.

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating:
Strengths:
  • The resource uploads easily with standard Internet browser
  • The process is easy to follow
  • The information is well organized and follows a logical order
  • Clear video with good demonstration of techniques. 
  • Subtitles availble in both English and Spanish.
Other Issues and Comments:

A good introduction to DNA extraction for Biotechnology classes.

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