Learning to karyotype in the university environment: a computer-based virtual laboratory class (KaryoLab) designed to rationalize time for the tutor/researcher and to encourage more students to engage in cytogenetics.

摘要: The ability to karyotype G-banded chromosome preparations is an essential skill for biologists. For this reason, the teaching of rudiments G banding analysis forms integral part curriculum in many biology and genetics degree courses. way which karyotyping usually taught involves providing students with a photograph chromosomes, pair scissors some glue from they can cut out chromosomes build karyotype. This has disadvantage that large amounts time are taken cutting pasting comparatively little learning pattern recognition individual chromosomes. In paper we describe development computer-based student practical class "KaryoLab". To best our knowledge, first report tool combines instruction cytogenetic both formative summative feedback virtual elimination marking tutor. Chromosome research diagnostics will only continue while there sufficiently motivated trained individuals perform it. We see software developed here as significant step towards training motivating cytogenetics.