Friday, April 10, 2009

Science Advocacy Tool

The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) has made it easy for you to become a science advocate. The organization's Action Center lets you send messages to your elected US officials to let them know how you feel about how their votes are affecting science. For example, you can find your Senator by simply entering your zip code and then thank your Senator for supporting science. You have the option of sending a prepared letter or crafting your own. You can also sign up for the action list and get an alert when your involvement can make a critical difference.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

BioQuest Investigative Cases

The Investigative Cases Center (ICBL) of the BioQuest Curriculum Consortium offers a variant of Problem Based Learning. Investigations are combined with technology, including software simulations and models, data sets, and internet-based tools. The investigative cases draw from realistic situations. Some examples of cases:



  • A Case of Mistaken Identity: ethical issues arise as an adopted sister is unable to donate blood.
  • Got Milk?: the presence of synthetic hormone in milk raises questions about biotech safety.
  • Kujira: a Japanese wedding leads to forensic testing of whale meat.
  • Murder by Atkins?: forensic chemistry to identify of a specific drug after a death.
  • The Hike: calculations and problem solving help trapped students survive.