When molecules come to life - Using Augmented reality for studying protein structure in Cell Biology class.

Most Undergraduate Biology courses cover an incredibly large range of topics integrating complex information at molecular, cellular, genetic and at the organismal level. Translating concepts from one level of thought to another and crossing disciplines equally and fluidly largely depends on how well students understand the structure-function relationship at the micro and macro level. A survey of the literature shows that despite having encountered these structures of biomolecules in their earlier courses, students lack an ability to visualize molecules and interactions. Most classroom curriculums use textbooks and lecture slides with straightforward two-dimensional structures that make it hard for students to visualize these macromolecules. To improve motivation and to promote student interactivity, in Cell Biology classes I have used molecular models in Augmented reality to reform content delivery by using interactive active learning techniques. This presentation will discuss ways for instructors to implement Augmented reality in their classes to help students better understand concepts of structure and function of Biomolecules.