Una experiencia de investigación-acción del concepto ADN en el aula universitaria

Abstract

The qualitative study presented is a descriptive nature, where from an experience of action research includes the teaching-learning processes in biological sciences, using the example of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). This was addressed in two dimensions, structure and applications of the molecule. As part of his experience that took advantage of modern technology, especially the use of computers and the Internet provide. The study participants were students of a section of a Biological Sciences course at higher education. Through this study we obtained information that helps to accomplish the first purpose is to explore how the implementation of activities never before used, this group of students, improve teaching-learning process. A second purpose was to observe the applicability of this method of action research in biological science courses and as the benefits and constraints faced at the time of its use in the university classroom. Data were collected using a reflective essay, a reflective journal of the teacher- researcher, reflective individual and group discussions. The results show a strong preference of students for the activities carried out during this study for teaching and learning of the concept DNA compared with normal activities used by the teacher- researcher. The main reasons for this preference are the change of routine, involving small group discussion, using the Internet as a source of information instead of the textbook and the teacher- researcher interaction with groups, as a participant and an additional resource, instead of being the main source of education available. Some of the implications of this study may have for curriculum development in the Biological Sciences are: using the Internet as a modern and relatively inexpensive resource for teaching and learning, encourage teamwork of students to facilitate the flow of information and create awareness among teachers on action research as a useful and powerful that they could add to its list of educational tools, not only to investigate but to find solutions to the problems of their respective courses.