Lessons Learned: Active Engagement in a Large‐Enrollment Introductory Biochemistry Course During a Remote Quarter

Abstract

In the spring of 2020, faculty worldwide were forced to abruptly transition in-person courses to an online format due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To keep students engaged in a large-enrollment introductory biochemistry course, I employed a plethora of techniques from synchronous lectures and active learning via the Zoom platform, to the asynchronous online discussion board Piazza. I also modified the course and assessments in consideration of students’ non-academic struggles relating to the pandemic. Student evaluations at the conclusion of the quarter indicated that they preferred synchronous lectures over asynchronous ones, flipping their pre-course preferences. These techniques and accommodations to the remote learning environment led to an overwhelmingly positive overall experience and promoted student engagement, especially in the face of increasing worldwide social unrest during the remaining two weeks of the quarter.