Human 2.0

  • Driving Question 

    How will biotechnology shape the future of humanity?

    Guiding Questions

    What does it mean to be human?

    What is the current state of biotechnology? (CRISPR) 

    What is ergonomics? How will it change our human form?

    CER Questions

    When should alterations to the human genome be allowed?

    What should be the deciding criteria for alteration?

    Who decides what alterations are acceptable?

    Overview

    Humans have focused on conquering three fundamental dilemmas; famine, plague and war. In many ways, humans have been successful although there is still room for improvement. Immortality, happiness, and genetic upgrading are quickly becoming the new ‘human agenda’. To do this we have to understand who we are, the limitations humanity lives with, and possible evolutions of our bodies, thoughts, and technologies. CRISPR and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are two technologies that have the capability to transform the definition of what it means to be human. 

    In this project students will work towards an understanding of basic genetics and CRISPR technology. Then, students will find a way to communicate their answer to the driving question. Groups of students will create and present an informative poster that will include personal CERs as well as their research that helps answer the driving question.

    Community Connections

    Dr. Lisette Maddison (WSU) Director of Gene Editing Reagent Core

    Dr. William Kabasenche (WSU) Clinical Professor of Philosophy

    Artifacts & Deadlines

    Benchmark 1: CER on Aging and Health  (Collaboration and Written Communication) Due Nov. 22

    Students will create their own CER that focuses on the ethical dilemma of human augmentation. Collaboration will be assessed through seeking and giving feedback. Written Communication will be assessed through the use of evidence.

    Benchmark 2: CER on Augmentation  (Collaboration and Written Communication) Due Dec.9

    Students will create their own CER that focuses on the ethical dilemma of human augmentation. Collaboration will be assessed through seeking and giving feedback.Written Communication will be assessed through the use of evidence.

    Benchmark 3: Biology IAKT  (Knowledge and Thinking) Due Dec. 14th

    Students will finalize their CER after receiving feedback from multiple sources. This CER will be placed on the final product poster presentation.

    Final Product: The Future of Infotech and Biotech Presentation  (Oral Communication, Agency) Due Dec. 15th/Jan. 13

    Using what students are learning in the activities, discussions, and research in this project, they decide how to communicate the answer (poster) to the driving question. The final product will have some way for the public to interact and give feedback.