The Impact of Zebrafish Research on Student Development at a Small Liberal Arts University

Abstract

Executing high‐level research at a small, liberal arts college in southern California is seen as a daunting task due to limited resources and funds. Unlike larger institutions that have teams of paid lab managers and personnel, Dr. Hyuna Lee’s zebrafish lab at Biola University is run solely by undergraduate students. The team performs zebrafish husbandry and conducts in‐depth experiments throughout the academic year, attaining hands‐on experience that cultivates their ability to utilize creativity and critical thinking in a laboratory setting. The zebrafish lab also collaborates with other departments within the School of Science Technology and Health at Biola University. For instance, students work with the Chemistry, Physics, and Engineering (CPE) department and the Biology department’s microbiology and parasitology laboratory courses. The students in the CPE department previously utilized their state‐of‐the‐art fabrication lab to design and construct customized research devices‐‐such as an optokinetic drum, multiple imaging devices, and a brine shrimp hatchery. The Biology department’s microbiology and parasitology laboratories investigated water samples from the aquatic housing system to identify potential threats to the health of the zebrafish population. To better understand how participation in the lab impacts individual development, the team generated a pilot survey to collect data on student perception and experience with research at Biola University. The data demonstrates a strong correlation between participation in directed research and positive experience with research and course labs. The study also suggests that directed research students have more personal and professional development in the sciences than students who have not participated in research. Working in an independent, student‐run facility with inter‐departmental collaboration seems to be an efficacious method to enhance student satisfaction, research appreciation, and department success within the undergraduate population.Support or Funding InformationNone.