BioGraph: Teaching Biology Through Systems, Models, & Argumentation
This six-week interactive and collaborative course integrates systems thinking with computer models designed to ‘bring biology to life’. You will learn how to use online simulations to develop core biology content and practices, aligned with the NGSS.
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Learner testimonials
“The students were just so engaged in these lessons. It got them to relate content to the modules and just get a deeper understanding. I thought that was awesome. I'm excited to teach them again next year”
“A highlight for me was the gene regulation simulation. There's really nothing else out there like it. It's such an abstract concept, but one that I think it's so important for kids to understand. It's the one that I look forward to doing the most. I like all of the implementations, but that one was my personal favorite.”
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I still participate if I need to miss a week?
A: Yes. New modules will be released each week and we encourage participants to complete them the week they are released because the course is collaborative. However, modules will remain open through the end of the course so they is an opportunity to catch up if you need to miss a week.
Q: Can I receive graduate credit for participating?
A: We are not able to offer graduate credit at this time
Q: Can I receive Professional Development Points or Credits for participating?
A: If you teach in MA or PA, yes. If you teach in another state or country, we are happy to work with you to provide a letter of participation or other artifacts that you might need in order to apply for PDPs but we can’t guarantee that your state will accept them.
Q: How much prior experience with technology is needed?
A: As long as you are comfortable navigating a web browser, this course will teach you everything else you need to know.
Q: What technology capabilities do I need to run this program in my classroom?
A: Ideally you will need access to a classroom set of computers or laptops with access to the internet that allow students to work with the simulations in pairs or small groups. However, the simulations can also be used as a teacher-led demo activity if you only have access to a teacher computer. Additionally, the simulations and the pedagogical strategies that surround them present an opportunity for unique teacher learning. Even if the simulations are not used in implementation, the pedagogies presented in this course can be used independently in the classroom.
Who can take this course?
Unfortunately, learners from one or more of the following countries or regions will not be able to register for this course: Iran, Cuba and the Crimea region of Ukraine. While edX has sought licenses from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to offer our courses to learners in these countries and regions, the licenses we have received are not broad enough to allow us to offer this course in all locations. EdX truly regrets that U.S. sanctions prevent us from offering all of our courses to everyone, no matter where they live.