Undergraduate Biophysical Chemistry Series: Teaching through a Combination of a Purpose-built Textbook, Research-derived Biomolecular Samples and Computer Labs

The article discusses the development and implementation of a comprehensive undergraduate Biophysical Chemistry series at Western Washington University. The series is designed to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of biophysics, covering a wide range of topics that are often lacking in traditional textbooks. The instructors have created a purpose-built online textbook that follows a uniform structure, incorporating practice problems to reinforce learning.

Additionally, they have developed a study sample, an oligopeptide of biophysical significance, which provides students with real-world data for both experimental and computational analysis. The series also includes student-centric in-class activities, such as computer labs, to further engage students in the learning process.

The series places a strong emphasis on computational structural biology, specifically focusing on Molecular Dynamics and spectroscopic approaches, including IR, UV, and NMR spectroscopy. By integrating these key elements, the instructors aim to provide students with a more holistic understanding of biophysics, preparing them for both general and major-specific courses within their major at Western Washington University.

The full textbook can be accessed through LibreText, allowing students to easily access the materials outside of the classroom.