Empowering Biochemistry Education: Introducing VIRTmac - A Digital Model for Engaging Student Thinking

Introducing VIRTmac, a unique web-based teaching tool designed to enhance the understanding of complex biochemical structures and processes. Developed by veteran Biology teacher John MacLellan over nearly two decades of classroom experience, VIRTmac has evolved from practical origins into a promising modern educational tool.

In 2005, while teaching in London, Ontario, John faced the challenge of limited instructional resources for his biology course. Frustrated by the lack of engaging materials and static diagrams, he took an innovative approach, creating physical models of biological molecules using simple materials that included laminated construction paper and magnets.

Over the next 20 years, John refined more than 250 physical models as well as accompanying lessons for a wide range of topics including the origins of life in the Ancient Sea, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, DNA replication and protein synthesis. His innovative approach has been described as a “daring departure from mainstream teaching”, and has received praise from both students and educators including recognition of teaching excellence with the prestigious Prime Minister Award for Teaching Achievement.

In 2023, John introduced his physical models to Lorie Mills, a seasoned science faculty member at the Nova Scotia Community College. Convinced of the transformative potential of John’s models, Lorie recognized the opportunity to digitize and modernize VIRTmac, making it more accessible and user-friendly. Drawing on her 20 years of experience in secondary and post-secondary teaching and educational technology, she leads the transition of VIRTmac into its current digital application as cofounder with John.

John and Lorie are excited to share VIRTmac-Beta with fellow educators, inviting feedback to enhance its usability and relevance in modern classrooms. They aim to have a classroom-ready version of VIRTmac and accompanying lessons for the 2024-2025 school year.