CellSpark: A Simulation Tool to Spark Discovery Learning of Electrophysiology

Abstract Challenge While hands-on laboratory experiences are an important component of biomedical engineering curricula, many of the topics which would often benefit most from these experiences are often too time-, space-, and resource-intensive to incorporate into laboratory classes. One such topic is electrophysiology, where phenomena are hard to observe and the mathematical models used to describe them are complex. Novel Initiative We present CellSpark, an electrophysiology simulation software that allows students to perform virtual patch clamp experiments without the need for complex laboratory equipment, training, or prior knowledge in mathematical modelling. We describe how this tool is implemented in an undergraduate bioinstrumentation lab through the theoretical framework of discovery learning. Reflection The use of the software tool was informally assessed by surveying students about their experience using the software, by analyzing the content of their submitted assignments for evidence that the learning objectives were met. Additionally, an individual use case is presented to demonstrate the utility of the tool to achieve authentic discovery learning. Overall, we successfully demonstrate a framework for the effective use of simulation tools designed primarily for research as teaching tools.