ABE Recombinant DNA Technology Teacher Training Completed!

As part of the Amgen Biotech Experience (ABE) Program, the Phase II Teacher Training on Recombinant DNA Technology has been successfully completed—equipping teachers with advanced knowledge and hands-on experience in one of the most current applications in molecular biology. 

The ABE Recombinant DNA Technology (Phase II: Advanced Biotechnology) Teacher Training was successfully completed through a blended format—online sessions held on May 21, May 28, and June 4, 2025, and an in-person session on May 25, 2025.

With the participation of 40 teachers, this multi-module training offered an intensive learning experience that combined both theoretical and practical components. Focusing on recombinant DNA technology, the program provided 19 teachers with the opportunity to enhance their scientific skills through hands-on laboratory sessions. The integration of online and in-person formats created a dynamic environment for knowledge sharing and professional development.

During the first online session held on May 21, 2025, teachers engaged in an in-depth exploration of the fundamental concepts of recombinant DNA technology. Topics such as gene cloning, PCR, DNA replication, gene transfer, plasmids, vectors, transformation, conjugation, restriction enzymes, ligation, and gene expression were addressed through interactive presentations and discussions.

The in-person session, held on May 25, 2025 at the Department of Biological Sciences at Middle East Technical University (METU), brought these concepts into the laboratory. In a scenario-based activity titled “The Invisible Accident in a Recombinant DNA Lab,” teachers actively applied scientific inquiry and collaboration skills to solve a problem. Throughout the session, participants carried out restriction digestion, restriction verification, and transformation experiments—reinforcing core lab techniques while also developing ideas for student-centered teaching approaches.

In the second online session on May 28, 2025, teachers collaboratively analyzed data collected during the lab activities. Transformation results were evaluated in both small group work and whole-group discussions. Expected and unexpected outcomes were interpreted within the context of the scenario, allowing participants to explore how experimental results can be connected to scientific reasoning and critical thinking through hands-on experience.

The final session, held on June 4, 2025, focused on classroom implementation. Participants explored how recombinant DNA technology can be effectively introduced to students. Teachers who had previously implemented Phase II laboratories shared their classroom experiences alongside the project team.  This closing session concluded with inspiring discussions on how to translate scientific knowledge into meaningful classroom practices through well-designed pedagogical strategies.

🎥 Want a closer look at the training experience?
The video below features highlights from the training journey—including photos taken throughout the training, impactful moments from reflection sessions, and heartfelt interviews with participating teachers. Hear directly from participants as they share their insights and discover the value ABE brings to teacher development.

👉 Watch the video below!