Exploring ethanol: Engaging first-year undergraduates in the biochemistry of ethyl alcohol

We sought to expose incoming Skidmore College students to principles and applications of biochemistry through a series of experiment-based activities in an interdisciplinary first-year seminar course, “Under the Influence: Alcohol in Science and Society.” To provide the diverse student population with first-hand experience of ethanol's biochemical origins, we developed simple fermentation and distillation protocols using grocery store supplies and standard lab glassware. In subsequent weeks, students used agar plates, spirit lamps, baking supplies, and fruit flies to characterize ethanol as an antiseptic, fuel, solvent, and intoxicant. Activities were deliberately open-ended to engage students in experimental design as well as laboratory materials and skills. All protocols were developed and validated during a summer faculty/student collaborative research project, supporting pedagogical as well as career development goals. Sample data and outcomes indicated appreciable student engagement in the process as...