The Interactive Fly is a very complete guide to Drosophila genetics and anatomy. The site focuses on the role of genes in Drosophila development. Information of genes reported in the primary literature can be accessed through a gene index, or by tissue and organ development. The gene index includes links by name of the gene, biochemical function, developmental pathway, as well as a cross-index to FlyBase genes. Gene information may also be accessed by stages of embryonic development or by formation of the adult fly. Information is provided primarily as text, but an extensive collection of scanning electron microscope images is included. Within images are some animations including Turner's Fly Morph-O-Genesis and Ready's Adult Ommatidium. Information on this site is updated quarterly
Type of Material:
Learning Material/Collection
Technical Requirements:
HTML and QuickTime
Identify Major Learning Goals:
The role of genes in Drosophila development.
Target Student Population:
Upper division Biology Majors
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Understanding of basic genetics and development
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
Quality of Content: (5.00) (5.00) = 5.0
Clearly laid out
Very complete and accurate
High quality of images
Good integration of related links
Engaging
Information regularly updated
Concerns:
None
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool: (5.00) (4.90) = 5.0
Great resource for advanced information
Most information presented as a text with useful links to pictures and animations
Promotes integration of information and advanced learning
Good links to other web resources
Flexibility of use in a number of related disciplines, including genetics, developmental biology, molecular biology and biochemistry
Concerns:
This site may be overwhelming to lower classmen. A link to introductory material giving an overview of fly anatomy, genetics and physiology would be helpful
More illustrations integrated in the text would make this site more engaging for students
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
Usability: (5.00) (4.80) = 4.9
Well organized
Good navigational links, but the site is extensive and users could get lost
Very fast, although some links may take longer than others
Concerns:
None
Overall rating: (5.00) (4.90) = 5.0
Creative Commons:
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