In action with action potentials

Abstract

The subject of bioelectricity is for many life science students the first encounter with biophysics. The transfer of knowledge on electricity from the context of physics to the context of physiology is not without difficulty. Use of computer simulations is expected to enhance the students' understanding and interest, and to promote critical and integrative thinking. This paper discusses models, simulations, and activities designed for life science students that help them come to grips with biophysical processes underlying action potentials of a single neuron through 'virtual labs'. Key models and computer simulations are presented, including their use in exploring phenomena such as firing threshold, spike train and refractory period. Experiences and opinions of biomedical students regarding the virtual labs have been collected and are discussed in this paper.