The Gen-Ethics Bowl – An In-Class Activity Combining Genetics and Bioethics

Abstract

Undergraduate science professors are capable of teaching the scientific principles behind new genetic technologies. However, they are not often readied to explore the ethical and social implications. We created an ethics bowl that brings together students in genetic and healthcare ethics courses to analyze ethical issues in genetics. It is an engaging, challenging, and rewarding experience that provides students with the tools to identify ethical elements in science. This proves to be a wonderful first step in training morally sensitive scientists.