Every Cell Counts: An Inquiry-Based Approach to Address a Novel Research Question in an Undergraduate Neuroscience Lab
By Melissa A. Birkett

A science-based curriculum that encourages hands-on experiences, skill development, and promotes student engagement are critical components in both successful undergraduate psychology and neuroscience programs. This lab explored an inquiry-based research project focused on microscopy skills, critical thinking, and independent research design. This lesson used a novel research question (How many serotonergic cells are
located in the dorsal raphe nucleus?) to engage students in research and methodology design. The resulting lab received positive feedback from students and provided data about the serotonergic system in a previously unreported species.

Key words: inquiry-based instruction; neuroanatomy; microscopy; serotonin

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