Biomedical Explorations: Bench to Bedside Phase II

2015-2017 Two-week session and school year follow-up

Funded by the NIH Science Education Partnership Awards (SEPA)

Bench to Bedside focuses on translational research, from discovery-based research to clinical therapeutics, and is funded by a Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA), administered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

This project creates and expands partnerships that connect researchers in interdisciplinary biomedical sciences with high school teachers to promote students’ interest in and preparation for bioscience careers. This innovative program integrates experiences from a summer Institute into classroom action during the school year.

During the Institute, an experimental sequence in basic science and clinical and applied research environments will illustrate scientific content, pedagogical methods, career options, and conceptual and technological interrelationships within translational research. Teachers work with science and education researchers to develop lessons and laboratory exercises that convey the principles of translational research and drug development in the context of career choices. During the school year, research proposals, resources, formal presentations, review of classroom outcomes and incentives for ongoing professional development will provide continuing support and encouragement to incorporate scientific processes, real-world skills and enthusiasm for bioscience careers into schools in rural and economically disadvantaged settings.

The project supports science teachers with opportunities for personal enrichment and professional advancement in biotechnology education and empowers them as agents of change in classrooms. It draws on all components of medical and biotechnology research and education at the University of Florida to further the recruitment, education and certification of high school teachers, especially those from rural and underserved communities.

The Bench to Bedside Summer Institute featured: a $1200 stipend, campus housing and selected meals, take-home materials for classroom use, and follow-up support during the school year to develop inquiry projects and new learning.