Bioinformatics
Introduction
Bioinformatics is the rapidly growing field concerning biotechnology used in
conjunction with technology to do things like unlock the human genetic code. In
New Mexico the field is growing thanks to funding received by NMSU to create a
bioinformatics center on campus where New Mexico students will have the
technology and opportunity to become cutting edge scientists in a field wide
open with opportunity. Thanks to many resources on the web, it is easy for
teachers to integrate lessons on the interesting field of Bioinformatics into
their classrooms. Study of this subject can be integrated as an important
protion of the New Mexico Science Standards and Benchmarks as well as
cross-curricularly in many other subject areas.
Computer generated representation of a strand of DNA.
Classroom Integration
New Mexico Standards and Benchmarks for science in secondary education include
teaching students about the role that New Mexico plays in the scientific arena.
Bioinformatics lessons are an opportunity to teach your students about emerging
technology that will put New Mexico on the map in this exciting field. There are
many websites about Bioinformatics that offer ready made teaching strategies and
activities for classrooms.
Computerized model showing DNA sequencing.
Links for Teachers
- SWBIC - Lesson Plans, comprehensive site with links to appropriate activities for K-12 students including games, multimedia, and lab activities.
- TAIR - Resources for educators and students. Appropriate for high school students, this site includes many resources focused on bioinformatics and plant studies.
- Incorporating Biotechnology Into the Classroom- Index of Lesson Plans - This site has a few lab activities that would be very interesting for high school students, includes a crime scence investigation activity.
- Genetics/Biotechnology Theme Page - Great site with tons of links to lesson plans and appropriate activities for the secondary level.
General Internet Resources
In the News
Additional Information
Bioinformatics is a rapidly growing and changing field. Please feel free to
submit any additions to this website that will help teachers and students have
access to the most accurate information.
Author's Information
This resource page was created by Ashley Lamb. I created this page as part of the distance education master's degree program at New Mexico State University. I am currently pursuing a degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on technology. I am currently teaching secondary science at Lake Arthur High School. This is my first year of teaching and it has been an exciting learning experience.
