Published July 3, 2023 | Version v1
Journal article Open

Contextualization of Soft Skills in a Biotechnology Course with Project-Based Learning

  • 1. Department of Life Sciences, Los Angeles Mission College, Sylmar, CA

Description

A shortage in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce has made it clear that STEM educators should adjust their teaching pedagogy to engage and retain students by improving student interest in STEM fields. Furthermore, in addition to discipline-based knowledge, students must learn the soft skills employers value to increase employability. Project-based learning (PBL), a student-centered teaching method in science labs, is a strategy that encourages students to create their projects while applying soft skills. This article demonstrates that integrating and implementing PBL in a biotechnology lab enhances knowledge and increases student retention and employment rates.

Files

Final Contextualization of Soft Skills in a Biotechnology Course with Project_FinalV_6-30-23.pdf

Additional details

Funding

Expanding the Biotechnology Pipeline to Adults Seeking Reemployment 2054891
U.S. National Science Foundation