Libro de Actas del III Congreso Latinoamericano y del Caribe e Investigación en Educación Superior- LatinSoTL- 2025

73 techniques central to molecular biology. By embedding outreach into the curriculum, students can bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application, thereby enhancing their professional development and teaching effectiveness. The thematic focus of the outreach initiative is "Molecular Approaches to Protein Analysis in Health and Disease." This workshop series aims to deepen participants' understanding of protein function in the context of disease mechanisms, diagnostics, therapeutic interventions, and forensic science. Through hands-on activities, students explore molecular biology techniques that are foundational to the study of proteins (proteomics). Techniques covered include ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay), Western Blot, protein purification, and electrophoresis, all of which are standard tools in the study of protein structure, function, and their clinical and forensic relevance. The workshops are designed by a faculty member and led by graduate students, who receive training in pedagogy, science communication, and technical execution from faculty mentors. The workshops serve undergraduate students majoring in biology, biotechnology, microbiology, and criminal justice. Participants engage in practical activities, including protein gel electrophoresis, blotting and detection, and immunoassay interpretation, and how these techniques apply to their respective fields of study. These experiences aim to build foundational competencies in molecular diagnostics and inspire students to pursue advanced research in biomedical sciences. To assess the educational impact of the outreach workshops, a mixed-methods evaluation strategy will be employed. Graduate student facilitators (expected n=12-18 annually) will complete pre- and post-tests evaluating their knowledge of key biological concepts. They will also complete Likert-scale surveys assessing self- efficacy in science communication, teaching readiness, and public speaking confidence. These instruments are adapted from validated tools in science education research and content-validated by faculty experts. The qualitative component includes open-ended responses and reflective journals maintained throughout the workshop series. Thematic analysis will be used to identify recurring patterns related to personal growth, instructional challenges, and the integration of teaching with research identities. Particular attention will be paid to how graduate students adapt content for non-specialist audiences and how these experiences shape their scientific worldview. Undergraduate participants (n=30-45 annually) will complete brief quizzes to assess comprehension of molecular biology principles and diagnostic applications. They will also provide feedback on the relevance of the workshops to their academic and professional goals. Criminal justice students, for example, may evaluate the potential use of ELISA in forensic contexts, while biotechnology majors may reflect on clinical diagnostic applications. Ultimately, the outreach program is designed to produce multiple educational benefits. For graduate students, the initiative enhances pedagogical competencies, increases confidence in teaching and public speaking, and stimulates greater engagement in research communication. For undergraduate students, the program offers early exposure to advanced scientific techniques and the societal relevance of molecular biology. This integrated approach supports cognitive development within the ZPD and addresses gaps in science education identified in the literature. Potvin and Bélanger