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Johns Hopkins University | AS.020.373

Developmental Biology Lab

2.0

credits

Average Course Rating

(3.72)

This laboratory is designed to give students exposure to the different techniques and organisms used in Developmental Biology research. Our primary goal in this course is to help you learn to think like a scientist and gain a better understanding of how scientists study development. With that goal in mind, students design and execute an independent project during the second half of the semester. The independent projects will culminate with a poster session in which the project and its outcome will be shared with the other students. Please be aware that because we are working with live developing embryos, you will sometimes be required to return to lab between scheduled class times.

Spring 2013

(3.51)

Spring 2014

(3.76)

Spring 2015

(3.88)

Spring 2013

Professor: Carolyn Norris

(3.51)

The best aspects of this course included the engaging, often fun lab experiments and that the class projects provided a certain level of independence that students found both encouraging and invaluable. Some students felt that Dr. Norris was not available enough. Students also mentioned that many of the lab experiments were not completed. Suggestions included more feedback throughout the project duration and better management/organization of the class. Prospective students should be wel -organized in preparation for independent experimentation.

Spring 2014

Professor: Carolyn Norris

(3.76)

Most students found the labs interesting, the independent project rewarding, and the wide variety of organisms examined the best aspects of this course. However, many students cited disorganization with regards to lab schedules and slow grading as the worst aspects of the course. Some possible improvements to the course would be returning grades and giving feedback sooner. Additionally, many students would like to have more guidance and structure for the independent project. Prospective students should know that the final project wil require more than the scheduled lab times, but overal the course material is fascinating and will add to your understanding of the developmental biology lecture.

Spring 2015

Professor: Carolyn Norris, Christov Roberson

(3.88)

The best part of this class was the relaxed, interesting and engaging labs. Students appreciated the more open-ended approach to the lab that put students in charge of their own research projects with a team. Many students found it difficult to prepare for lab when the manuals were not updated until the day of lab. Others claimed that the labs tended to be disorganized, and that it was unclear what to do when labs did not work as planned. This class could be improved by having more clear expectations, and doing a better job keeping the organisms alive. Prospective students should take this course concurrently with developmental biology.