BIOTECHNOLOGY AND THE CURRICULUM FOR COLLEGE BIOLOGY

Contrary to some perceptions, the study of Biology is not only limited to memorization of terms and theories. More than that, the study of Biology requires students to be inquisitive and analytical in applying the different theories in the actual world.  That is why; a good curriculum for Biology Education should include subjects that are practical and problem-based.  In this way, the student’s thinking and practical skills will be triggered and enhanced.

The incorporation of Biotechnology in all Biology subjects should be given utmost importance and emphasis because its real-life applications are what this world currently needs. Biotechnology, by its definition, is a “technology based biology - biotechnology harnesses cellular and bio-molecular processes to develop technologies and products that help improve our lives and the health of our planet.”

Example includes Stem Cell Therapy, Gene Therapy, Bioremediation (the use of microorganisms to clean up wastes in the environment), etc.

The University of the Philippines-Diliman, through the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biology, is offering a program leading to the degree Bachelor of Science major in Molecular Biology and Biology.  The program “was established by the University of the Philippines Board of Regents in 1987 under the College of Science, U.P. Diliman.  This interdisciplinary program was created to train undergraduate and graduate students in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology to respond to the need of the Philippines for molecular biologists and biotechnologists in academe and the industry.”

Sample Curriculum can be seen by clicking the link below:

http://www.nimbb.upd.edu.ph/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/UG-BS-Curriculum-updated.pdf

In this day and age, where technology is fast changing and improving, educational institutions should respond to this trend with great urgency. And one way of doing so is by continously improving the curriculum of the different courses they are offering and make it attuned to the needs and technology of the advancing world.

References:

Biotechnology Industry Organization. (n.d.). What is Biotechnology? Retrieved February 08, 2014, from http://www.bio.org/node/517

Keener, K., et  al. (2014). Biotechnology and its Applications. Retrieved February 08, 2014, from the Department of Food Science, NC State University Website: http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/foodsci/ext/pubs/bioapp.html

University of the Philippines, Diliman - National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biology. (n.d). Retrieved February 08, 2014, from http://www.nimbb.upd.edu.ph/?page_id=19