This course examines biotechnologies, including gene technology and modern medicine in social, environmental and ethical context. Case studies examine topics such as genetic modification of agricultural crops and animals for food and production of therapeutic substances; genetic modification for pest control and environmental conservation; cloning of humans and other animals; medical areas of genetic screening and gene therapy; reproductive technologies; organ and stem cell transplantation and the convergence of humans and machines to repair or enhance human function. The courses addresses bioethics, risk/benefit assessment, intellectual property, regulation of new technologies, cognitive development and world view as these affect judgment, and considers both the potential promise and threat of these new technologies. Students will hear the many diverse perspectives of technologies from professionals from both within and outside the university.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Discuss, in general terms, the science involved in new biotechnologies and the associated contextual issues
2. Research and evaluate a diversity of biotechnology information sources, and the diversity of perspectives they reflect
3. Create a framework to assess the benefits and risks of biotechnologies
4. Identify a personal view in the context of the debate about a biotechnology in both individual and team formats
5. Apply reflective and argumentative thinking to scientific, societal and personal views.

Assessment will be based on:

• Reflective Tutorial Reports (20%) to critically evaluate information and diverse perspectives (LO  2, 4)
• Participation in tutorials and submission of Tutorial Questions (10%) to explore personal views of biotechnology (LO 1, 4)
• Debate Reflection Report (10%) to critically evaluate diversity of information and perspectives (LO 2, 4)
• Research essay (25%) to critically evaluate the science and context of a given  biotechnology, create a framework for benefit/risk assessment, and argue a personal view (LO 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
• Open Book Examination (35%) to demonstrate benefit/risk assessment framework and discuss scientific, societal and personal views about a case study in biotechnology (LO 3, 4, 5)

Two lectures/seminars (up to four hours) per week and a one hour tutorial per week.

96 units towards a program of study.

SCCO2001, SCCO3004 and SCCO3102.