Inquiry Based Learning in practice to enhance an Immunological Biotechnologies laboratory experience

Abstract

This paper aims to describe a teaching redesign experience that took place through the introduction of the Inquiry Based Learning methodology within the course of Immunological Biotechnology included in the program of the Master's Degree in Industrial Biotechnologies at the University of Padua. The decision to introduce this approach starts from the need to maximise and support students during the learning experience, to sustain the development of specific skills related to real-world laboratory research environments, making them more aware of the design and practical steps of the laboratory itself. The new design (and its implementation) has both enhanced student learning and improved satisfaction with the teaching. The feedback from the students also allowed us to acquire important information to work further on teaching and create more authentic and effective experiences, through a teaching and learning approach based on investigation.