The EdvoReader: Developing a Quantitative PCR and Colorimetry Instrument for Laboratory Skills Training

Project Summary: The field of quantitative biology involves using mathematics, statistics, and modeling to analyze the results of biological experiments. Students at the high school and undergraduate levels can develop these skills through a comprehensive STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education. These analytical skills are crucial for success in many careers, including those in science, and for making informed decisions in daily life. However, despite the importance of this training, and the significant funding provided by the U.S. Department of Education, biological science teachers often struggle to incorporate quantitative analysis into their curricula. This is often due to a lack of resources, equipment, expertise, and time. This proposal aims to address these challenges by creating equipment, experiments, and comprehensive resources that can be used to bring quantitative analysis into teaching laboratories. One barrier to incorporating quantitative analysis in teaching laboratories is that the necessary equipment is designed for research use; it is too expensive, bulky, fragile, and complicated for use in an educational environment. To address this problem, we will continue to develop the EdvoReader, a simple, integrated device designed for students to perform inquiry-based quantitative biology experiments in the lab. In Phase I, we developed a thermal cycler with a precision optical detection system that is capable of both colorimetry and real-time PCR analysis. In Phase II, we will refine the EdvoReader’s optical system and focus on the development of a touch screen interface that creates a faster and easier workflow and directs users through setup, operation, and data analysis. By building this instrument from the ground up, the EdvoReader can incorporate the features most important to educators while minimizing costs. To complement the EdvoReader, we will develop a series of inquiry-based experiments for the educational laboratory. One set of experiments focuses on the basics of environmental monitoring, focusing on water quality testing. A second set of experiments integrates quantitative biology into experiments commonly performed in biology, biochemistry, environmental science, and biotechnology classes. To complement the hands-on experiments, we will create an extensive training library, including how-to videos, interactive simulations, and materials for STEM career exploration. An assessment team has been recruited to evaluate the EdvoReader and associated experiments for its effects on STEM identity and for the development of quantitative skills in high school students. By combining a low cost, user-friendly instrument with dedicated experiments, the EdvoReader platform will provide educators with an inexpensive and accessible pathway to teach quantitative biotechnology. In turn, students will gain valuable hands-on training and an understanding of STEM analysis that will be critical for career development.