The challenge of improving the understanding of biochemistry: A new methodology integrating basic subjects in clinical scenarios

Abstract

Biochemistry, Genetics, Cellular and Molecular Biology are subjects perceived as diffi cult by students due to their abstraction level. They become clearer when they are studied in an integrated context. In the Department of Basic Biomedical Sciences at the Universidad Europea de Madrid we are tackling this reality through our newly designed methodology named Workstation Learning Activities (WSLA, González-Soltero et al., submitted). Based on the TBL approach, WSLA benefi ts from using clinical scenarios as a thread to instruct students with an integrated perspective. This method improves the understanding of the basic biochemical processes behind physiological events whilst relating them to the fundamentals of anatomy. Workstations are designed to cover the specifi c learning objectives. Set with state of the art environments and using cutting edge technology, students are faced with practical and theoretical settings as they will fi nd them in the real professional world. Hence implementation of WSLA is especially welcomed when implemented in laboratory practices. Students understand the relevance of integration of otherwise separated subjects as a fundamental background to comprehend basic biological processes developing critical thinking. WSLA represents a flexible instrument that can be scalable to diff erent degrees and levels of integration across academic years. Given the internationality of our institution, WSLA proves to be a helpful resource to be used in multicultural sessions. When analyzing student’s perceptions, motivation and academic results we have found that WSLA improves both, showing the benefi ts of implementing this new methodology in the Health Sciences Degrees Curricula.