Evolving Molecular Bioscience Education 2021

Abstract

More than 90 educators from 27 countries joined us at the joint Biochemical Society and FEBS training event, Evolving Molecular Bioscience Education. Day one, skills development: different approaches to embed skills into the Biosciences curriculum were presented, including ways of assessing skills. Skills assessment was identified as one of the main challenges in education. Examples of how to foster skills development addressed computational skills and science communication to a public audience. From an industrial perspective, skills which are not easily gained during a degree were highlighted, followed by suggestions for addressing the gap between education and the workplace. The day’s key message was that students need more help to recognize their skills development and evidence it on job applications. Day 2, students as co-producers: talks explored ways to involve students in curriculum design, including assessment and feedback, and helping educators to identify and address equality and diversity issues. The power of the student voice in guiding the design of educational approaches and the importance of increasing assessment literacy were two of the key take-home messages of the day.On both days, well-populated break-out rooms were used to foster group discussion, allowing participants to share their own practices and challenges. Discussions addressed the current pandemic-related higher education changes, with a particular focus on ways to move forward. The event celebrated teaching awards granted by the Biochemical Society and the Royal Society of Biology. In addition, pre-recorded flash-talks on both days provided more food for thought while sharing good practice.We had great feedback from the attendees, who particularly liked the group discussions and engagement opportunities with speakers and each other, as well as the fantastic presentations.We look forward to seeing you all again in 2 years’ time!