ERIC Number: EJ758669
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2006-Nov
Pages: 5
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0036-8555
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Family Secrets: The Bioethics of Genetic Testing
Markowitz, Dina G.; DuPre, Michael J.; Holt, Susan; Chen, Shaw-Ree; Wischnowski, Michael
Science Teacher, v73 n8 p28-32 Nov 2006
This article discusses "Family Secrets," a problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum module that focuses on the bioethical implications of genetic testing. In high school biology classrooms throughout New York State, students are using "Family Secrets" to learn about DNA testing; Huntington's disease (HD); and the ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of genetic testing. Moreover, this article also discusses a five-part progressive disclosure PBL that includes: a family disease; the dilemma; a difficult choice; testing for the HD gene; and making decisions. Furthermore, some teachers reported that the module inspired them to create additional PBLs on topics such as ecology, evolution, and genetic engineering. Virtually all teachers stated that they would continue to use "Family Secrets" in the future and that it has indeed become a valuable addition to their genetics curricula. (Contains 3 figures.)
Descriptors: Teaching Methods, Diseases, Biology, Testing, Problem Based Learning, Genetics, Engineering, Ethics, Diagnostic Tests, High School Students, Interdisciplinary Approach, Family Characteristics, Legal Responsibility
National Science Teachers Association. 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000. Tel: 800-722-6782; Fax: 703-243-3924; e-mail: membership@nsta.org; Web site: http://www.nsta.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: High Schools; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: New York
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A