Undergraduate Biotechnology Curriculum Development Project

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Because of the multidisciplinary nature of biotechnology, its incorporation into existing undergraduate introductory science courses, such as biology and chemistry, can contribute to the enrichment of these courses, as well begin to demonstrate lateral and horizontal connections between sciences which have been traditionally perceived as distinctly independent scientific disciplines. This proposal outlines a strategy for the development of high quality, creative curriculum models which will place emphasis on transferring basic core technology (theory, research and experimental procedures) utilized in biotechnology and adapt them to fit within the structure of the educational setting. The primary focus of these curriculum models will to be incorporate core technology, through theory and "hands-on" experiments, within a context that directly correlates and demonstrates relationships to recent developments and applications of biotechnology in such areas as medicine, agriculture, forensics and industrial procedures and processes. The faculty participants will develop curriculum modules which will be implemented and field tested at their respective colleges. Based upon field test evaluations, the curriculum modules will be refined, modified and re- implemented, and will provide the basis for the development of a biotechnology Curriculum and Resource Manual for widespread dissemination to undergraduate faculty. The project's overall strategy strives to help promote scientific literacy to aid students in making important future decision which will affect their personal lives, as well as stimulate and influence some students to continue in scientific studies.