Improving Quantitative and Critical Thinking Skills in Introductory Biology Students in an introductory biology course improve quantitative and critical thinking skills by conducting laboratory exercises requiring increased use of data collection, recording, analysis, and reporting. Microscopy laboratories include exercises requiring measuring, counting and estimating. Electrophoresis experiments separating DNA fragments are incorporated into the regular laboratory schedule. Increased use of lab exercises focusing on cellular and molecular biology provide students better opportunities to utilize the tools of biology and connect biology with related disciplines (chemistry). Students work in teams and utilize a collaborative learning methodology which extends to both lecture and small group weekly sessions.
