Exploring Biotechnology Using Case-Based Multimedia

Abstract

oday, teachers face more challenges than ever, and biology teachers face a special challenge. As technology continues to expand, biology teachers have a responsibility to keep students informed of technological and scientific advances. Biology teachers must also address ethical issues associated with these advances. Here we describe our experiences using case-based molecular biology simulations in high school and introductory college biology classes. This software enables teachers to meet several national science standards, such as connecting science to real-life situations and encouraging students to think about the relationships among science, technology and society. The realistic simulation also encourages students to explore careers in molecular biology and genetics, and gives students experience both in building Web pages and Internet conferencing.