Ac 2007-1425: Demonstrating Neural Function through Both Hands-on and Computer-simulated Laboratory Modules

The Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME) at Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) focuses on three areas of study: Cell and Tissue Engineering, Neural Engineering and Medical Imaging. Within the Neural Engineering curriculum, students take a core class called “BME 445 Quantitative Neural Function”. The major objective of this class is to teach fundamental concepts of neural function with an emphasis on quantitative analysis. Originally, this class was created as a lecture only class based on a traditional neuroscience class. However, it has been shown that students learn more effectively when the concepts are demonstrated through either hands-on or computer simulated laboratory modules. In order to enhance the learning experience, several laboratory modules and computer simulations were incorporated into the BME 445 class. Students found the modules enjoyable and helpful to deepen their understanding of the material. Overall, it was beneficial to introduce these hands-on experimental modules into a traditional neural science class for the BME students.