Today I’m writing to you to let everyone know about one of the newest editions to the Library’s collection of databases. We have just started a subscription to JoVE, The Journal of Visualized Experiments, which is a collection of research experiments that have videos showing each step in detail! This is the world’s first peer-reviewed scientific video journal. These videos are filmed at some of the top scientific institutions and help enable in-depth understanding of complex STEM subjects. We have access to thousands of filmed experiments in biology, environmental science, neuroscience, biochemistry, chemistry, genetics, and developmental biology. We also provide access to educational videos that will be especially helpful to students who are new to working in science labs. I remember being a science undergrad and struggling HEAVILY with my organic chemistry classes. I once had to re-do an experiment twice – becoming increasingly panicked each time as I ran out of time in the lab class! If only I had access to JoVE videos back then! There are a wide range of videos on how to set up common chemistry experiments, from column chromatography to recrystallization. Watching these videos can give any student the confidence of setting up their experiments and a deeper understanding on why some of the methodology is used. There are also videos on basic lab safety.
All of these videos not only have the filmed experiments, but they are also separated into steps with explanations on what is happening and there is a transcript for the videos as well. For example, the recrystallization video gives an overview of the technique, principles, and procedure – all in very clear and concise language that is easy to understand.
I believe that JoVE will be of great use to our students in the coming years and I am exciting for our new and returning students to be able to use this amazing new resource! Access can be found on our A-Z list. Happy Experimenting!
Rachel Bennet
Resource Management and Discovery, Continuing Resources Coordinator
