Protein purification: an educational game with investigative approach

• Grant number: 18/26620-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: May 01, 2019
• End date: February 28, 2021
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry
• Principal Investigator: Bayardo Baptista Torres
• Grantee: Paulo Enrique Cuevas Mestanza
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Biochemistry is a common subject in most graduations courses related to biological areas. Among the topics, Proteins stands as one of great importance due to its wide range of functions. Virtually no biological process precludes the participation of proteins. Undergraduate students show difficulties in correlate the dynamic tridimensional structure of a protein to its function. To overcome these problems, methodologies alternatives to reading and listening have been developed such as tridimensional models, interactive softwares and laboratory experiments. This project aims at the development of an educational game. Games are powerful tools in active learning since, while playing, students are challenged to solve a problem, to take decisions, to create strategies and collaborate or compete to win. In the game proposed, the participant must purify a protein using the available methods and the most efficient manner to obtain the amount of protein needed. To aid in the assignment, players may view and interact with molecule structure using Augmented Reality. Therefore, by a ludic approach, we intend to improve students' abilities of elaborating and testing hypothesis. Additionally, they will learn about protein purification methods and establish relationship between physicochemical characteristics of a protein and its structure through an investigative practice. (AU)

Academic Publications

(References retrieved automatically from State of São Paulo Research Institutions)

MESTANZA, Paulo Enrique Cuevas. Development of educational games for biochemical education. 2022. Master's Dissertation - Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Conjunto das Químicas (IQ e FCF) (CQ/DBDCQ) São Paulo.