The involvement of genome researchers in high school science education

The rapid accumulation of genetic information generated by the Human Genome Project and related research has heightened public awareness of genetics i ssues. Education in genome science is needed at all levels in our society b y specific audiences and the general public so that individuals can make we ll-informed decisions related to public policy and issues such as genetic t esting. Many scientists have found that an effective vehicle for reaching a broad sector of society is through high school biology courses. From an ed ucational perspective, genome science offers many ways to meet emerging sci ence learning goals, which are influencing science teaching nationally. To effectively meet the goals of the science and education communities, genome education needs to include several major components-accurate and current i nformation about genomics, hands-on experience with DNA techniques, educati on in ethical decision-making and career counseling and preparation. To be most successful, we have found that genome education programs require the c ollaborative efforts of science teachers,genome researchers, ethicists, gen etic counselors, and business partners. This report is intended as a guide for genome researchers with an interest in participating in pre-college edu cation, providing rationale for their involvement and recommendations for w ays they can contribute, and highlighting a few exemplary programs. World W ide Web addresses For all of the programs discussed in this report are give n in Table 1. We are developing a database of outreach programs offering ge netics education (http:// genetics-education.mbt. washington.edu / database ) and request that readers submit an entry describing their programs. We in vite researchers to contact us for more information about activities in the ir local area.