Graphic summary “cheat” sheets to accompany each Chapter in “Open Genetics”
Faculty/Staff: Natasha Ramroop Singh and Isabella Alas (student)
Platform: Pressbooks
Site link (if applicable): https://opengenetics.pressbooks.tru.ca/
Services provided: Funding work by artist
Description: The Introduction to Genetics textbook, was designed and published 2021-2023 for BIOL 2340/2341 at TRU. It is an evolving open educational resource aimed at keeping genetics content fresh and accessible. To enhance student learning, this project proposed the creation of visually engaging graphic summaries for each of the textbook’s 12 chapters, created by a student in the course, Isabela Alas, a very talented artist! A former student, Isabella demonstrated exceptional skill in producing creative and effective study aids. The summaries have been reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Natasha Ramroop Singh, before being integrated into the textbook. This project initiative is a simple yet impactful way to support student comprehension and improve exam performance in BIOL 2340/2341.
Impact Summary
- Used in course(s): BIOL 2340/2341
- When: Fall 2024; Winter 2025
- Estimated number of students using textbook(s): 90 (BIOL 2340) + 90 (BIOL 2341)
- Note: other faculty at TRU may also be using this textbook
- Average price of textbook replaced:
- The average price of a Intro genetics-related textbook in Canada typically ranges from $60 to $300 depending on format (print or ebook) and publisher – we are using a modest estimate of $125/ high quality textbook, featuring accessibility and engaging components such as videos, graphics, and interactive H5P activity components.
- Estimated savings: $125 x 180 students = $22,500
