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The Department of Genome Sciences at the University of Washington in Seattle develops innovative programs that bring leading-edge science to teachers and students in K-12 schools. These programs provide interdisciplinary, hands-on science curricula, teacher training, equipment, and support to promote systemic change in schools. |
Biology and
medicine are changing dramatically as we begin the 21st century.
Sequencing the human genome, the blueprint for human heredity,
has lead to fundamental changes in the way science and medicine
are practiced. New information from the Human Genome Project
present striking social and ethical challenges as well as unique
opportunities that require citizens to understand science to
make informed decisions. To prepare society for these challenges,
we need to develop state-of-the-art curricula in both science
and ethics for K-12 schools.|
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| StarNet Project | The StarNet Project involves teachers and students in authentic research related to drug abuse. Students have acted as scientists in helping to carry out a research investigation of genetic and environmental factors that contribute to smoking behavior. In their classrooms, students have helped genotype DNA from study participants and are now analyzing both genetic and environmental data by querying the Smoking Behavior Research database. Teachers can receive training on the StarNet curriculum by attending summer workshops. |
| Exploring Databases | Through Exploring Databases, high school students will conduct authentic research using a database containing genetic and environmental data from smokers and non-smokers. They will use the Smoking Behavior Research database to pose their own questions about what factors are associated with becoming a highly addicted smoker.Through this research experience, they will learn about genetics, neuroscience, bioethics, the nature of science, and careers in science and technology. |