Use of an virtual clinical trial lab curriculum increases student understanding of the scientific method and communication

In contrast to traditional expository approaches to biochemistry laboratory teaching, many novel alternatives have emerged in recent years. One approach is to incorporate simulated “real world” tasks into the lab experience, such as research-related activities, that are frequently engaged in by the scientific community. In this study, we designed and implemented a virtual clinical trial comparing the effects of high-protein and low-fat diets on metabolic outcomes into a second year Biochemistry & Metabolism course, which we hypothesized would increase student understanding of elements of scientific communication and the scientific method. The secondary research objectives of this study were to assess if the change in understanding was related to student characteristics including learning approach and academic performance. Students (n=39) completed the Revised Two-Factor Study Process Questionnaire 2 (R-SPQ-2F), and a survey assessing understanding of scientific method/communication before and after implementation of the laboratory curriculum. It was determined that student understanding of every aspect of scientific communication and methodology significantly improved; no relationships were observed between learning approach or grade and the average mean change in understanding.  As the focus shifts away from traditional instruction towards alternative approaches, virtual clinical trial curricula may effectively improve the learning environment of the biochemistry laboratory. This approach to laboratory teaching may also be relevant to other science disciplines.