Cystic Fibrosis as a Theme to Incorporate Team-Based Learning in Cell Biology Courses

Team-based learning (TBL) is structured, cooperative learning teaching strategy used in a variety of disciplines. TBL uses a three-step approach for delivering content to students: out-of-class preparation, readiness assurance, and application. In this article, a method for incorporating TBL into an undergraduate cell biology course using cystic fibrosis (CF) as a theme is described. Class content is divided into modules. Each module consists of (1) out-of-class video viewing and reading assignments; (2) individual and team assessments, mini-lectures, and think-pair-share activities to assess understanding of the material; and (3) in-class, group problem sets related to the molecular pathogenesis of CF. Although originally designed for an introductory undergraduate cell biology course, this curriculum can be easily adapted for upper-level undergraduate and high school students.