Abstract:

Two blended courses in biochemistry were taught, one for the undergraduate students majoring in sciences, another one for graduate students in the M.S. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry program. Each included an on-line component, weekly discussion of a recent publication from a biochemistry related science journal. The on-line discussion included a foreign virtual faculty, from the industry. Some of the assigned papers were suggested by the virtual faculty, cutting edge topics from their field. The interest student showed in the on-line discussion of scientific literature was strong and the exchange of ideas included often inquiries about country specifics concerning scientists and science policy. The graduate students were interested to find out about different career paths and the numerous international students enrolled in the M.S. course seemed very comfortable interacting with scientists from other countries. The same teaching approach applied in a graduate course in enzymology forged a very stimulating class environment and lead to students making personal contacts with scientists in the industry.

Keywords:

Global perspective, science education, virtual faculty.