Google Gemini for Active Learning and Exploration
Utilise Generative AI for interactive bioscience sessions, fostering critical thinking in a safe environment.Integrating GenAI in Biosciences Education
I work in HE and teach in the biosciences. I teach students to use GenAI (Google Gemini) in my teaching sessions by providing them with customisable prompts that they can cut-n-paste from a shared GoogleDoc to save them typing the prompt in. I always include specific tasks that require students to critically evaluate the outputs.
Example 1: Supporting UN SDGs
In example 1, I use Google Gemini to support student teams in brainstorming potential solutions to the UN SDGs and to critique the outcomes. Prompt: 'act as a [CEO of a medium-sized biotech company specialising in enzymes]. How could your company contribute to tackling the UN SDGs?'. Then 'Tell me more about [idea 2]'. Then 'Act as a harsh critic. Criticise [idea 2]. Why might it fail?' And then 'where can I find data on progress made on [SDG2]?
Example 2: Ethical Issues in Genetic Testing
In example 2, I use GenAI (Google Gemini) and role play to explore the ethical issues surrounding using preimplantation genetic testing to screen for non-medical traits. Prompt: 'You are [Mary, a homemaker from Texas with four dyslexic sons who are struggling at school]. What is your opinion on combining IVG with preimplantation genetic testing for traits like [dyslexia]? Why?'
The students really enjoy these sessions and the large sessions can get pretty loud! It also gives students confidence when talking about challenging topics (e.g. ethics in the biosciences). These are deliberately designed as a safe, low-stakes environment where students can interact with GenAI without the fear of getting it 'wrong'. The variables (square brackets) are used to make sure the students' first experiences of GenAI work well, in that I know the prompts will 'work' and the students can follow whatever interests them. I do not conduct formal evaluations, but I know of cases where students really run with this and use this to structure their approach to other areas of the group projects (e.g IP and financial considerations). Here is my blog on using GenAI in large group teaching. This includes my five tips (with explanation) - blog link
