ISB 204: Applications of Biomedical Sciences
In ISB 204, Applications of Biomedical Sciences, I integrate multiple technologies that foster student-centered learning, inclusivity, and collaboration in a course with 180 students per section. The course utilizes D2L, Piazza, CATME, Packback, and H5P interactive elements, each serving a distinct role in enhancing the student experience. D2L serves as the central hub, offering organized access to course content, external links, instructions, schedules, and grades. Piazza is a question-and-answer platform for informal discussions regarding the class and assignments. Packback, a graded AI-powered discussion platform, provides instant feedback to help students refine their critical thinking and analytical skills. CATME enhances teamwork by creating teams using student answers to a survey and providing structured peer evaluations. Finally, H5P interactives are integrated throughout our open textbook and have students practice concept questions with instant feedback, reinforcing their understanding. All technologies and course content meet accessibility standards and are freely available to MSU students.
Incorporation of Technology
In my courses, I use several key technologies to create a structured, accessible, and engaging learning environment. Each tool was chosen with the intent to meet specific pedagogical goals, whether it was enhancing collaboration, improving feedback, or increasing student engagement.
D2L serves as the central hub for my course, and I have structured it carefully to help students navigate the course content, assignments, and assessments seamlessly. While D2L is widely used, the way I integrate it with external tools like CATME, Packback, and Piazza is somewhat unique. I organize all course materials, instructions, and deadlines into module content folders, which are sorted by the dates they are due. This reduces the cognitive load for students who might otherwise struggle with multiple technologies by keeping everything easily accessible in one place. D2L features such as checklists help students stay on track, and many students comment that the course is one of the most organized they have taken.
I created an open-access textbook to reduce financial barriers for students, and the integration of H5P interactives within the textbook allows students to practice and test their understanding of key concepts in real time. The interactives provide formative assessment opportunities, enabling students to receive immediate feedback and adjust their understanding before moving on to summative assessments like quizzes. This innovation aligns with my goal of creating an active learning environment where students can engage with the material and develop a deeper understanding.
Together, D2L, CATME, Packback, Piazza, and OER with H5P interactives create a well-organized, student-centered learning environment that promotes engagement, critical thinking, and inclusivity. Each technology supports specific instructional goals, and their thoughtful integration helps students succeed academically while reducing the complexity of managing multiple platforms.