Thursday, January 19, 2006

Human Body Systems Activity - Biomedical Engineering & Ethics

Grade level: 7
Time required: 2 class periods
Cost: $0
MA frameworks: Life science 6, Technology/Engineering 7.1, 7.2
This activity provides an opportunity for students to learn about artificial hearts and to discuss the ethical issues surrounding experimental life-saving devices. Students view a NOVA program and read articles, answering querstions. Classroom discussion follows. An article regarding the role of engineers in society (focused mainly on dams) follows. The discussion of issues of engineering ethics may be deepened by inclusion and discussion of this article.
Link to Artificial Heart Activity. NOVA artificial heart program information.