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"Expanding the use of advanced microscopy equipment to improve undergraduate science education through collaboration and innovation in the learning environment"

University of Alberta, University of Calgary, University of Lethbridge, Athabasca University

Summary of Results to Date from 2007-2008 Award

The hallmark of science teaching in Alberta is the ability to offer a strong laboratory experience for our students.  The Access to the Future Fund for 2007-2008 provided funding for the purchase of 1,034 of student microscopes for use in introductory courses at the University of Alberta (Faculty of Science, Faculté Saint-Jean, Augustana), Calgary and Lethbridge.  Throughout the province, students now have access to high quality microscopes for their studies.  To further improve teaching effectiveness in these laboratories, 61 instructional teaching microscope units (microscope, digital camera, dedicated computer, projector) were also purchased for these laboratories.  Using compound microscopes laboratory instructors are now able to demonstrate to the entire class various prepared slides as well as microscopic living organisms.  These images can be captured through the use of digital photography for use in student assignments, projects, collaborative projects across institutions and for general course use. While the full implementation and use of these microscopes and instructional teaching units is yet to be realized (units arrived after the beginning of the academic term in September 2008), we look forward to developing new and effective teaching protocols to maximize the additions of this equipment to our laboratories.