Development, implementation, and evaluation of a case study on gene therapy : an undergraduate honors thesis [(HONRS 499)]

Abstract

This research project consisted of developing three case studies--one on gene therapy and two on the Human Genome Project (HGP). The gene therapy case study was implemented and evaluated in Honors 299, a Ball State University Honors College course, and also in an Advanced Biology class at Western High School in Russiaville, IN. Students used the case study in conjunction with either a decision-making model or student discussion group. The case study was evaluated by administering pretests and posttests to the students and comparing the data obtained. From the results, it was determined that the case study was effective as a teaching strategy for bioethical decision-making. Both this case study and the case studies on the Human Genome Project will be used in future biology courses at Ball State University.