LI-COR(R) Biosciences and Tiger Woods Learning Center Collaborate to Develop High School Curriculum i...( LINCOLN Neb. June 4 /- In a plan ...)

LINCOLN, Neb., June 4 /PRNewswire/ -- In a plan designed to develop educational opportunities for students in grades 5-12, LI-COR Biosciences and the Tiger Woods Learning Center (TWLC) are collaborating to pilot a novel approach to genomics education. "A recent report by the National Research Council studied the declining interest in science and argued that students are more likely to have increased scientific interests if they are able to participate in hands-on experiences," says Jeff Harford, LI-COR product manager.

"We view the science program at the TWLC as an ideal starting point for this initiative. It will allow us to appreciate the needs of high school educators while reaching a significant number of students through the impressive program already in place at the TWLC," adds Harford. "We are providing the TWLC with one of our DNA sequencing systems to further enhance the hands-on experience in two of their current programs."

Programs at the TWLC are designed to take young people (grades 5-12) beyond their traditional classroom experience through a unique after-school curriculum rooted in science, math and technology. "Our mission is to provide young people with a broader perspective of the world, a clear understanding of his or her own skills and the tools to achieve long-term personal success," says Dr. Kathy Bihr, executive director of the Learning Center. "Programs are developed to give students a better understanding of career opportunities and better prepare them for college."

Currently TWLC offers two programs; a week long program for elementary students and their classroom teacher designed to provide both an authentic hands-on learning experience. Fifth grade students participate in Crime Lab 101, a series of modules that teach students about forensic science as a career, utilizing the DNA sequencing system. Classroom teachers participate in professional development focused on science instruction and technology integration
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