Genetics in practice: integrating genetics and physical therapy in education, research, and outreach initiative

Abstract:

This study investigates the integration of genetics, active learning methods, and knowledge dissemination in higher education. Physical therapy students remotely implemented project-based learning (PBL), emphasizing genetic diseases. They formed ten groups to develop a wiki and a practical product related to their field. The evaluation was conducted using online surveys, and Bardin's Content Analysis was used with the responses. The findings highlighted the challenges of remote learning and the effectiveness of PBL in knowledge construction. Wiki preparation emphasized the importance of scientific writing, and students' positive feedback on product development suggests a stronger link between genetics and their daily lives. The results of PBL were shared through an outreach activity, demonstrating the viability of combining teaching, research, and outreach within fundamental disciplines. This approach encourages the development of more engaged professionals by contextualizing knowledge and addressing specific issues in genetics education.

Keywords:
Project-based learning; Genetics teaching; Active learning methodologies; Content analysis