Cross-curricular Collaboration in Teaching Social Aspects of Genetics

Science teachers can lack pedagogic skill and confidence in handling multifaceted socio-scientific issues. This project has explored the development, implementation and evaluation of a ‘cross-curricular’ day as a suitable vehicle in 8 different schools for both engaging 14-16 year old pupils in active consideration of social aspects of genetics and enabling science and humanities teachers to collaborate in planning and delivery. The crosscurricular research team planned a programme of activities, involving volunteer teams of teachers in development. Pupils in participating schools generally found the day stimulating, increasing their understanding of genetics and appreciation of social aspects. However, implementation showed that some teachers missed important learning opportunities. The paper explores the nature and implications of cross-curricular collaboration for increasing pupils’ engagement with social and ethical aspects of biomedical science and science teachers’ pedagogic skill.