Abstract:

The incorporation of interactive video-based resources is an increasingly valuable tool to enhance active learning and ensure instructional continuity under exceptional situations, such as extreme weather events, when an in person activity may be cancelled. This study assesses the impact of an innovative “cameo” resource (PowerPoint presentations featuring a video of the instructor explaining and pointing to the content), implemented in the Biology course (BI2201) of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology degree at the Universitat Jaume I (Castelló de la Plana, Spain). A total of 45 students completed a survey after attending the regular lecture and subsequently viewing the cameo version of the same topic. Results showed that 86% of students perceived this resource as equally or more effective than the traditional lessons in helping them understand key biological concepts. Additionally, 80% of the students considered it very useful for understanding complex material or compensating missed classes. Regarding overall satisfaction, 80% of participants rated the resource with 4 or 5 on a Likert scale (1 to 5), being the clarity of explanations and the flexibility to review the content of some of the most valued aspects. However, 7% of scholars reported minor technical issues, which were mainly related to audio quality or access speed. Self-reported understanding scores revealed that 73% of the students considered that cameo positively contributed to their preparation for the future evaluation process. The obtained responses reflected the benefits of seeing the instructor interacting with the content and the possibility to learn at their own pace. In conclusion, these findings confirm that cameo-based resources provide an effective complement to traditional lectures, enhancing comprehension, active learning, accessibility, and student autonomy. Moreover, they offer a pedagogical alternative, facilitating academic continuity during disruptions such as adverse weather conditions.

Keywords:

Biochemistry, biology, cameo, teaching innovation.