9360681 Graf This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to explore the feasibility of using biological materials which have not been traditionally utilized in educational settings for developing new problem-based laboratory experiments in the life science curricula. The research will explore the use of plant biological materials, such as plant mutants, which are available through genetic stock centers and germplasm collections, to construct classroom experiments for biology courses. These experiments are intended to encourage problem-based experimental activities for communicating biological concepts for helping students develop critical thinking and investigation skills. In Phase I, the experiments will focus on biological concepts which will provide a foundation upon which students can build to achieve a full appreciation and understanding of the agricultural applications of modern biotechnology. The use of these materials will present students with an introduction to genetics and biotechnology, showing the connection between these disciplines and other areas of modern biology. A preliminary evaluation component focusing on obtaining feedback from several practicing science educations of the project will be initiated. It is anticipated that the results of this Phase I will lead to the identification and utilization of new resources in science education and will contribute novel aspects to future improvements in the development of new biology curricula. Recognizing that very few laboratory-based curricula materials have been developed in the area of biotechnology education as it relates to agriculture, specifically plants, and that this area will have increasing importance and relevance for students, Edvotek seeks to make an important contribution to the appreciation of current biotechnology research being conducted for agricultural applications by providing such curricula materials on the grounds that this area will have in creasing importance and relevant for students. ***
