Utilizing SARS-CoV-2 to teach PCR and gel electrophoresis in a pair of asynchronous distant learning laboratory exercises

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, many colleges shifted to online learning, creating a need for teaching materials that could be deployed in the online setting. A pair of virtual laboratory exercises with a COVID-19 theme were created for first year Biology majors to introduce students to the topics of polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis. The exercises were effective in promoting student learning of both topics in an online asynchronous setting, and could easily be adapted for use in other courses or in a synchronous online setting.