Training boost for Biology teachers
The next generation of Scots biology teachers is gathering at the University of Aberdeen for a training event that will introduce them to the very latest in what's happening in biotechnology.
It is also hoped that the skills students learn will be used in the classroom to encourage more school pupils to consider the wide range of technological industries encompassed within Biotechnology as a career.
Every trainee teacher in Scotland on a PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) biology course is attending the three day "Biotechnology for Scotland" residential school at the University which takes place between April 19 and 21.
It is the second year the event has taken place and delegates will be involved in lectures, laboratory sessions, industry visits and ethical activities. Students will also have time to mix with each other in the hope they develop an information sharing network which will continue after they enter the classroom.
Dr Peter Shand, Lecturer, School of Education, University of Aberdeen, said: "The event has allowed the teacher training institutes to develop closer links with each other and with the various organisations involved in Biotechnology Education.
"This includes the Microbiology Departments at the universities of Aberdeen and Strathclyde. This year the Microbiology Department at the University of Aberdeen has been closely involved with the development of the programme and have provided first class laboratory facilities and organised a number of notable speakers for the event."
The event is a collaboration of the five Initial Teacher Training Institutions across Scotland - the University of Aberdeen, University of Paisley, University of Glasgow, University of Strathclyde and the University of Edinburgh. It has been facilitated by the Scottish Institute for Biotechnology Education (SIBE).
Dr Jan Barfoot from SIBE, said: "All the Scottish initial teacher training institutions which offer a PGCE with Biology for prospective secondary school teachers are sending their students to the school.
"Although all of these students have a biological qualification it may not necessarily be in a subject relevant to biotechnology. Yet we are asking our biology teachers to encourage their students to begin careers in this sector, identified as one of Scotland's key industry sectors.
"Biotechnology is a rapidly changing field and there needs to be opportunities for teachers to keep up with the latest developments. The Scottish Executive has also recognised the need for this kind of training for teachers and student teachers in their science strategy and have therefore funded the majority of this biotechnology school. Support has also been received from the Society for General Microbiology."
For more information contact Dr Peter Shand, at the Hilton Campus, University of Aberdeen on: (01224) 274736.
Photograph opportunities with students in laboratory: Monday, April 19 between 11am and 12.30pm, Tuesday, April 20 between 2pm and 4pm and Wednesday, April 21 between 2pm and 4pm - all at Lab 8, Edward Wright Building, Dunbar Street.