Putting biology education in perspective

Understanding the significance of its application in the world today

Biology: the science behind life…

Biology: the science behind life…

Who can benefit?

• Myth: A biology education is only useful for those who wish to pursue

further science education/career

Who can benefit?

• Future life scientists

• Non-scientists participating in democratic decision-making

• Future teachers

• All citizens affected by everyday biological issues

Biological Literacy

“allows people to tackle issues which intersect with biology and

their lives”

• Beneficial to individuals

• Beneficial to society

Common Myths

• Only overweight and/or unfit people

have heart attacks

• A sun tan is healthy for you

• Genetically modified food is ‘bad’ for you

• Recycling is a waste of time

Some important issues in the 21st century

cloning

Global warming

Sustainability

Obesity

Health Literacy

• Healthy eating

• Exercise Sedentary behaviour

• Dangers of alcohol abuse/smoking

Current issuein the media

Environmental Literacy

• Waste and Pollution

• Conservation

• Recycling and renewable energy

Benefits to Society

• Environmentally friendly society

• Healthier society

• Increased understanding of biological issues within a

community

Useful thinking for life

• Scientific thinking can enhance non-scientific thinking processes

– Problem solving

– Reasoning

– Analogies

– Deducing facts

Life is special…