MdBioLab is a custom-built mobile bioscience laboratory that provides a compelling learning environment centered on inquiry-based laboratory activities. The program serves high school students and their teachers throughout the state of Maryland. MdBioLab's goal is to increase science awareness of modern career opportunities in science.
This innovative program seeks to increase student experience and confidence with laboratory concepts and techniques while alleviating the budgetary burdens of laboratory science on schools. It also works to increase teacher self-efficacy with the concepts, theories and equipment.
The MdBioLab curriculum includes laboratory activities ranging from basic biology and chemistry to AP biology and environmental science. All activities are focused on inquiry-based learning and science careers and meet Maryland Science Content Standards.
Activities include common bioscience techniques such as DNA extraction, agarose gel electrophoresis, restriction enzyme digests, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), transformation, and protein quantification. The investigations include relevant themes such as oil spill cleanup, alternative fuels, wildlife forensics, bioengineering, crime scene investigation, diagnosis of sickle cell disease, analysis of enzyme activity, and the connection between laboratory science and the study of environmental biology.
