A Two-Day Training Marathon in Kars by ABE Türkiye

ABE Türkiye Organizes a Two-Day Training Marathon in Kars

On September 27–28, 2025, the ABE Türkiye team organized both the Phase 1 Refresher Training and the PCR Training in the Context of Biotrafficking, with the participation of around 15 teachers.
Throughout the two-day program, teachers refreshed their knowledge and gained new insights and skills in an engaging learning environment.

📌 September 27 – Phase 1 Refresher Training
The training began with a fun icebreaker activity highlighting the spirit of the ABE teacher community — a group of educators who “learn from and complement one another.”

Through an interactive Kahoot! session, teachers deepened their conceptual understanding of DNA isolation.
During the micropipette session, participants answered true-or-false questions and then performed pipetting on microplates based on their responses, enhancing both their scientific precision and artistic sensitivity.
In the “Mysterious Fish Deaths” scenario, teachers compared gel electrophoresis band profiles to investigate the cause of the mysterious incident.
➡️ The day concluded with a reflection and closing session.

📌 September 28 – PCR Training in the Context of Biotrafficking
The second day started with conceptual discussions on the steps, components, and applications of PCR. This was followed by hands-on activities based on the “Preventing Biotrafficking through DNA Barcoding” scenario.

Teachers amplified a target gene region using PCR and then tested whether amplification occurred by running gel electrophoresis.
In a follow-up online session to be held after the in-person training, participants will discuss how to determine whether the tested sample belongs to an endemic species through gene sequencing and bioinformatics analysis of the PCR products.

In addition to the lab work, sessions on DNA barcoding processes and the importance of barcoding in combating biotrafficking were held, supported by current studies and real-world examples.
➡️ The day ended with evaluation and closing remarks.

Participant Feedback

At the end of the training, teachers shared their satisfaction with the teamwork, the opportunity to fill knowledge gaps, the new ideas they gained, and the hands-on PCR experience.
They also emphasized the importance of discussions on biotrafficking, the DNA barcoding system, and the learning outcomes that can be transferred into classroom practice.
The overall sentiment was one of “pleasant exhaustion and strong motivation.”

Voices from the Teachers

“The team was perfectly coordinated and inspiring — I’m so glad I joined!”

“I realized that the gaps from my previous training were filled today. I’ve gained new ideas for classroom activities.”

“Honestly, I couldn’t think of a way to make this refresher session any better. :D”

“A pleasant exhaustion 🥰 Supporting my colleagues made me reflect on my own competence and motivated me.”

“It was great to experience PCR firsthand, and the discussions on biotrafficking were very valuable.”

“I truly understood how important the barcode system is in our country and how vital it is to convey this to students.”

“Many thanks to the project team for sharing such an interesting DNA-related topic with us. All instructors were incredibly supportive. I went home tired but feeling great.”