Serena Di Palma, Functional Genomics Center Zurich:

In this report, I present and reflect on a “Research-based teaching and learning” (RBTL) project that I carried out within a course in the field of metabolomics. This elective course, limited to eight students, was held for the first time at the Functional Genomics Centre Zurich. Target students were postgraduate (Msc), PhD or young research scientists interested in learning the application of metabolomics in a research setting. The course is conceived to bring theoretical concepts into laboratory practice and to allow each student to develop a unique research project by setting personal learning objectives based on own interests. For the individual research project, I implemented the steps of the RBTL principle, guiding the students through each step of the cycle: from the formulation of a specific hypothesis until final presentation to the class. The overarching goal of my RBTL project was to make the students aware of the main phases involved in a research project, to complete the steps independently and to integrate this approach in the daily research-based learning. More in detail, I aimed that my students would be able to formulate a refined research question; design an experimental strategy; reflect on their learning achievements and report in a concise way their project. To support students during the RBTL cycle, feedback was regularly provided, highlighting the connection between the different steps. Interactive discussions and pair activities were employed to engage students in critical evaluations of their strategies and help them share their reflections. The final project presentations were not graded but each student received a combination of – verbal and written – peer and expert feedback that could further guide them in the future development of their project. From either a teaching or learning point of view, the outcomes were successfully fulfilled. The course was positively evaluated by the students and will be yearly implemented in the teaching activities of the facility center.