Strengthening science teachers' knowledge and practical skills through DNA extraction, PCR, and electrophoresis training

Authors

  • Triastuti Rahayu Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0009-0009-7540-3385
  • Yasir Sidiq Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6495-7571
  • Lina Agustina Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8461-8304
  • Erma Musbita Tyastuti Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0009-0003-3020-1436
  • Hasna Rania Wibowo Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia
  • Erika Dzikri Masita Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia
  • Yunika Tussa'adiyah Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia
  • Nadhifa Najwa Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26905/abdimas.v11i3.17244

Keywords:

DNA extraction, molecular biology, teacher training, science practicals, experiment-based learning.

Abstract

Recent advances in molecular biology require science teachers to have a solid understanding of DNA, genetics, and biotechnology. However, limited laboratory facilities and a lack of hands-on experience remain major challenges in implementing experimental learning in schools. This community service program aimed to strengthen knowledge of DNA concepts and provide practical laboratory experience for junior and senior high school Biology/science teachers from Muhammadiyah schools in the Solo Raya region through training on DNA extraction, PCR preparation, and DNA visualization. The program was conducted using a participatory approach that included planning, hands-on laboratory training, and evaluation through pre-tests, post-tests, and participant satisfaction surveys. Participants practiced selected steps of PCR preparation. Among 15 paired participants, average scores increased from 61.33 to 76.67, and 11 participants improved. Most of the 16 respondents also reported positive perceptions regarding the relevance of the training materials, the quality of the activities, and the usefulness of the program for supporting science learning in their schools. The training enabled participants to connect abstract molecular biology concepts with direct laboratory experience. Practical skills were not assessed with a performance rubric; the findings therefore indicate improved knowledge and initial hands-on experience, not demonstrated skill mastery.

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References

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Published

2026-10-10

How to Cite

Rahayu, T., Sidiq, Y., Agustina, L., Tyastuti, E. M., Wibowo, H. R., Masita, E. D., … Najwa, N. (2026). Strengthening science teachers’ knowledge and practical skills through DNA extraction, PCR, and electrophoresis training. Abdimas: Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat Universitas Merdeka Malang, 11(3). https://doi.org/10.26905/abdimas.v11i3.17244

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 3 (2026): August 2026

Section

Natural Science and Technology

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