Feelings about stem cell research vary among members of the general public with many people weighing religious and/or ethical concerns against medical advancement.  How should this issue fit into K-12 education in our schools?  You may find that teaching students about stem cell research and its implications will not only introduce them to valuable scientific and ethical concepts but also help them to understand the importance of science education to their futures as voting citizens. But, don’t catch your community off-guard. As with all controversial issues, any plans for addressing stem cell research should include a public engagement component.

• What are the religious reservations about stem cell research?
• What do scientific organizations say about stem cell research?
• How might stem cell research fit into K-12 SMT education?

What are the religious reservations about stem cell research?

• A PBS article discussing different religious viewpoints surrounding stem cell research (July 27, 2001)

What do scientific organizations say about stem cell research?

• A 2007 op-ed from AAAS CEO Alan Leshner about stem cell research.

How might stem cell research fit into K-12 SMT education?

• A lesson plan for grades 10-12 addressing stem cell research.
• Links to other stem cell curricula.