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April 8-12, 2001
North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching
Cullowhee, North Carolina (Seminar 2345)

The news is filled with stories about DNA fingerprinting, cloning, gene therapy, genetically engineered foods, the Human Genome Project, and other results of the current revolution in genetic science. What are the implications in our lives? How will the revolution influence the content of the classes we teach? This seminar is designed to introduce non-science teachers to the latest genetic science information. UNC-Chapel Hill's state-of-the-art Traveling Science Laboratory will be available for hands-on experiments we will conduct in order to solve a mystery that will unfold before our eyes. Discover how trace amounts of DNA are used for identification by forensic scientists. Determine the molecular basis of sickle cell anemia and learn how to differentiate sickle cells from normal blood cells. We will explore Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, "the governing myth of modern biology," and discover how this myth has shaped our views of science. We will also examine biologist James Watson's The Double Helix, the entertaining and controversial personal account by the co-discoverer of the structure of DNA. Drawing on these works and the results of our own experiments, we will discuss the ethical dilemmas posed by genetic science. We will explore ways to integrate genetic sciences in our classrooms, making connections between scientific discovery and our own talents for discovery and creativity.

Who Can Attend--and Does It Cost Anything?

Teachers, media specialists, school counselors, and librarians who have been employed full-time in North Carolina public schools for at least three years. Teachers may attend at no cost, but a brief essay and recommendations from principal and superintendent are required. The North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching will reimburse your school district for substitute teacher pay while you are attending the NCCAT seminar.

How to Apply

Call NCCAT Teacher Services at (800) 922-0482 to pre-register and to receive an application by mail. You can also download an application form by visiting the NCCAT web-site. You will need to provide either your social security number or driver's license number. By law, providing your social security number is voluntary. Occasionally, seminars fill to capacity quickly. You will be informed of a waiting list. Telephone pre-registration began September 18, 2000.

[Archived: January 2001]