The PCR Simulator: an on-line application for teaching Design of Experiments and the polymerase chain reaction

Our PCR Simulator is a web-based application designed to introduce concepts of multi-factorial experimental design and support teaching of the polymerase chain reaction. Learners select experimental settings and receive results of their simulated reactions quickly, allowing rapid iteration between data generation and analysis. This enables the student to perform complex iterative experimental design strategies within a short teaching session. Here we provide a short overview of the user interface and underpinning model, and describe our experience using this tool in a teaching environment.