Overview
After precisely targeting our educational core, namely
"Wider and Deeper" , and solidifying the theoretical foundation,
namely the PDCA cycle and cognitive-developmental theory, we
promptly initiated a series of splendid educational activities, aiming
to profoundly stimulate everyone's intense interest in synthetic biology
and significantly enhancing their degree of participation. Specific
content can be found in Idea Workshop
To cover all age groups, we cultivated an education tree, where
each age group corresponds to a thriving branch. Through our persistent
endeavors, 17 schools and 1,682 participants have integrated into
this education tree. For specific details, please refer to
Education Tree
Additionally, we expanded the boundaries of the target group, which
encompasses
ethnic minority students, teachers, parents, and community workers . These fresh faces have not only infused vigorous vitality into
synthetic biology but also paved broad paths for more people to explore
this cutting-edge discipline deeply. Specific content can be found in
Activation and Extension
Innovation is undoubtedly the driving force for the advancement
of education, and Edutainment makes education distinctive and charming.
The "iGEMers' Day" activity leads freshmen to immerse themselves
in the daily routine of iGEMers. Meanwhile, the
"21 days, let's make heart healthier" program, through the mode
of Daily check-in of work and rest, effectively encourages participants
to cultivate healthy habits. We also integrated
the art of painting , leading students into the laboratory to
personally experience microbial painting, and guiding them to depict the
heart in their minds. We also ingeniously designed four games, including
two video games, a jigsaw puzzle, and a card game . Specific
details can be seen in
Innovation and Edutainment
The multi-sensory learning assists our target groups in gradually
forming a clear perception of abstract concepts through genuine and
delicate sensations. In view of this, innovatively, we commence from the
senses of sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch, allowing more
people to fully appreciate the unique charm of medicine, iGEM, and
synthetic biology. For details, please check
Multi-sensory learning
We hope that other iGEM teams can refer to the pattern of our work in
the future. In order to raise public awareness of synthetic biology, we
have created four distinct theme handbooks. For detailed
information, please refer to Sustainability
To achieve the iterative optimization of education and have a deeper
insight into the inner thoughts of the educated, we constructed an
educational activity feedback form and provided it to the
educated promptly after each activity. To our delight, we deeply
summarized and learned a considerable amount of valuable experience from
this precious information. For details, please refer to
Close the Loop
Education is not merely the transmission of knowledge but rather the
kindling of a flame within the soul. We will continue to deepen the
content and form of education, actively innovate, and vigorously promote
cooperation. We hope to join hands with more organizations and
individuals, forge ahead together, and fully promote the development of
synthetic biology, enabling the knowledge in this field to widely
benefit every corner of society.
Idea Workshop
How can we make education broad horizontally and deep vertically?
This is the question we have been constantly focusing on. Last year, we
entered primary school, middle school, high school, and university, as
well as children in rural areas, enabling them to access the knowledge
of synthetic biology. This year, we broadened our horizons: expanding
our reach beyond the classroom to engage a wider community,
particularly groups with the potential to influence and inspire a
broader spectrum of individuals. We also revolutionize education by
utilizing innovative tools and forms to make synthetic biology strike
deeper roots in people's hearts.
Thus, our educational core this year is: Wider and Deeper! (Figure 1)
Figure 1. The explanation of Wider and Deeper
The core values of education shape its essence, while theoretical
frameworks provide the necessary structure and guidance for effective
implementation. Thus, we innovatively introduced the
PDCA cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act Cycle, Figure 2) and
Cognitive-developmental theory
to our iGEM cycle.
The PDCA cycle was originally developed for product quality management.
Inspired by its systematic procedure, we realized that it can also be
effectively applied to our educational activities.
We incorporated the PDCA cycle into any activities we organize, each
stage we assess, and the entire cycle of every year's iGEM project . In the PDCA cycle, the larger cycle provides overall direction and
goals, while the smaller cycles break these goals down into actionable
steps (Figure 3A). This structure allows complex processes to be
systematically and progressively managed, ensuring that all smaller
cycles align with our educational goals of the iGEM cycle. We
continuously identify issues, collect feedback, implement adjustments
through this process, and achieve our overall goals in a more effective
way (Figure 3B).
Figure 2. The structure of the PDCA cycle
Figure 3. (A) The relationship between the large and small cycles. (B):
The staircase-like ascending model.
Specific to children and adolescents, our educational approach
integrates Jean Piaget's cognitive-developmental theory, which is
regarded as a foundational theory in 20th-century developmental
psychology.
We have designed a set of teaching materials and activities that match
their cognitive maturation stages . These initiatives are scientifically designed not only to spark
intrinsic learning motivation and boost learning efficiency but also to
nurture cognitive, social, and emotional growth. (Table 1)
Table 1. The illustration of Cognitive-developmental theory
Our mission is to cultivate a dynamic and open learning environment
where everyone flourishes through ongoing reflection and practical
engagement.
By merging the continuous enhancements of the PDCA cycle and the
staged progression of cognitive-developmental theory, we aim to have a
deeper influence on wider groups and new communities in synthetic
biology .
Education Tree
Introduction
Education is a continuous journey of growth. We conceptualize
education as a young sapling that requires our careful nurturing and
patient cultivation to flourish into a towering tree.
Each interaction and engagement serve as nourishing rain,
enriching the soil and allowing the roots of knowledge to grow deeper
and strengthen. Every presentation and sharing session acts as
sunlight, enabling the branches and leaves to stretch upward.
We want to plant the seed of synthetic biology
in the hearts of every participant . As this seed takes root, it
will continually inspire a flow of innovative thoughts. Through this
growth, the participants will be able to truly comprehend and apply the
concepts and knowledge of synthetic biology, emerging as a new force
promoting the development of this field.
In our education tree,
each age group is a branch, and every participant is a leaf .
These branches embody diverse knowledge and experiences across different
life stages, from early childhood to old age, illustrating the
diversification and adaptable nature of education. Every leaf can fully
perform photosynthesis in an environment that suits it, storing the
energy essential for its vibrant growth. Our commitment is to nurture
and expand this educational ecosystem, striving to influence even more
individuals.
So far, we're proud to report that our tree has expanded into 6
branches and 1,682 leaves. (Figure 1)
Education is a journey filled with promise and potential. We aspire for
our efforts to grow into a towering tree that, while enriching itself
with vitality, also creates a nurturing habitat for those around it.
By doing so, we hope to see the beauty of education spread to every
corner and ignite boundless possibilities for the future .
Figure 4. The growth process of the education tree
Sensorimotor Stage (0-2 years)
Based on cognitive-developmental theory, children aged 0 - 2 rely
extensively on their senses and motor skills to explore the world
around them . During this critical stage, they develop coordination between
movement and perception, attain object permanence, and begin to form a
sense of self-awareness.
To meet these crucial developmental requirements, we've created an
interactive sound wall chart designed and tailored for this age group . Featuring the theme "Animal Kingdom," it presents 40 distinctive and
representative animals, offering a comprehensive exploration of
creatures that appeal to children's natural curiosity and growth during
this period.
The magic of this design lies in its delightful interactive sound
feature. With just a curious tap from little hands, each animal on the
chart comes to life with vibrant sounds.
The built-in voice system not only announces the animal's name but
also shares fun facts about its habits, habitat, and more . This engaging and amusing experience turns learning into an
adventure, arousing curiosity and making the wonders of the animal
kingdom both exciting and educational for young explorers.
The inspiration behind this sound wall chart stems from the concept of
edutainment. By tapping into children's natural curiosity, it acquaints
them with the marvels of nature through engaging and interactive play.
Our aim isn't just to introduce animals to them, but also to kindle
their curiosity and sense of discovery . As they embark on this exploration, they'll naturally cultivate
essential skills such as cognitive development, language acquisition,
and sensory perception, thereby laying a solid foundation for future
biology learning.
Preoperational Stage(2~6 years)
In the preoperational stage (ages 2~6),
children begin to use language and images to express themselves , but their behavior is still quite egocentric due to their lack of
abstract thinking.
Based on these traits, we created a children's picture book that
combines text and images to convey information from a child's
perspective .
At this stage, children's understanding of the biological world focuses
mainly on macroscopic animals, with their knowledge of the microscopic
world relatively scarce.
Our goal is to introduce the concept of bacteria into their
understanding .
Our picture book, "Invisible Bacteria", simplifies complex scientific ideas with a fun and engaging story
about little Noah. By personifying bacteria, the book helps children
grasp the concept and highlights the importance of good hygiene habits.
To help children better visualize the shape of bacteria, we've created a
range of charming illustrations. We offer
two versions of the book: one with fully colored illustrations and
another with line drawings for children to color by themselves . This design not only enhances the book's interactivity but also adds
an extra layer of fun.
Recognizing that this stage is pivotal for language development,
we have translated our picture book into multiple languages, featuring
both English and Chinese on each page to encourage bilingual learning . Thanks to the support from the UTokyo iGEM team and the
Evry-Paris-Saclay iGEM team, we are also offering
a Japanese version and a French vision. We're thrilled to spark
their curiosity and inspire young readers worldwide. For more details,
please check
Collaboration. Moreover, to ensure our educational message is accessible to children
in the broader community, we have also translated the picture book into
the language of ethnic minority groups in China,
including Uyghur, Tibetan, and Korean.
Click to read
Exploring the Micro World: What Are Bacteria?
– A Special Session at the Third Kindergarten Affiliated with Jilin
University
We had a wonderful time introducing the kids at the Third Kindergarten
of Jilin University to
the fascinating world of bacteria through fun and interactive
activities .
The session began with an engaging game called
"My Helpful Little Hands" , where the kids eagerly shared all
the wonderful things done by their hands daily. The game elicited
laughter and enthusiasm, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the
session.
After the game,
we gathered for a special storytelling session centered around
Invisible Bacteria , a picture book we created to help children better understand
bacteria. The kids were captivated by little Noah's story and began to
realize the importance of good hygiene. In the end, many eagerly
shared their plans for adopting healthier habits in their daily lives.
We expounded on
what bacteria are, the types of bacteria, and their ubiquity in our
lives . To help the children better understand, we also displayed bacterium
models, giving them a direct sight of the shapes and diversity of
these tiny organisms.
We emphasized that not all bacteria are 'bad guys', there are
beneficial or harmful bacteria. Our aim was to help the children gain
a well-rounded understanding of bacteria and understand their
symbiotic relationship with humans.
We taught the children the simple yet effective seven-step
hand-washing method, guiding them through each step carefully . They followed along attentively, practicing the proper steps as we
demonstrated. Seeing their focus and effort as they washed their
hands, we were truly delighted.
Afterward,
we handed out line-drawing versions of our picture book, allowing
the children to color in the pages by themselves . They excitedly picked up their crayons, bringing each page to life
with their own creativity.
We hope that this activity not only encourages the love for science but
also inculcates lifelong hygiene habits, fostering curiosity and healthy
living.
Concrete Operations Stage (7-11 years)
Children aged 7 to 11 are in a crucial phase of cognitive development
known as the Concrete Operations Stage.
During this period, they began to think logically and grasp rules and
principles , which allowed them to think in more complex and multidimensional
ways. However, they still rely on concrete experiences and often find
understanding abstract concepts challenging. Therefore, in designing our
educational activities, we focused on simplifying abstract concepts,
making it easier for them to grasp.
Filled with excitement, we
visited Shuxun Primary School and Jiefang Road Primary School in
Changchun to start a fascinating journey into biology .
At Shuxun Primary School, we started by sharing the story of cell
discovery, explained cell structure and function, and highlighted how
they secrete proteins. The children were then invited to draw the
structure of cells, including the nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic
reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and chloroplasts.
At Jiefang Road Primary School, we opened the door to the world
of microorganisms. We discussed the structure of common microbes and
explored their benefits and drawbacks. To make the experience even more
exciting, we encouraged the children to use clay to create their
imaginative microbes. It was truly inspiring to witness the children
shaping a variety of unique and magical microbes with their little
hands, as they internalized these abstract concepts and expressed them
in their own creative forms.
At the end, we encouraged each child to reflect on their learning
experience by writing down their thoughts and feelings. The feedback we
received was overwhelmingly positive.
Many children shared that the presentation deepened their
understanding of cell structures and microorganisms and sparked a
strong interest in biology .
This experience truly highlights the power of education. Through simple
yet engaging activities, the children not only acquired knowledge but
also developed a genuine love for science.
At this moment, we are confident that future scientists are quietly
growing right here .
Theme: Entering the Kingdom of Cells
Date: March 13, 2024, morning
Location:
Shuxun Primary School, Changchun City, Jilin Province
Participants: 48 students in Grade 4
Children aged 7 to 11 are in a phase of vibrant curiosity and a
strong desire for knowledge. To ignite their interest in biology and
nurture their spirit of exploration, we visited Shuxun Primary
School in Changchun on the morning of March 13th. Together, we
embarked on a journey to explore the fascinating Kingdom of cells.
At the start of the activity, we shared an inspiring story with the
children about the great scientist Robert Hooke and his discovery of
cells through the microscope. While science often seems mysterious
and distant to them, Hooke's discovery showed that science is not
out of reach but all around them, waiting to be explored with
courage and a curious mind.
Next came the interactive session where we asked the children, "Have
you heard of cells before?" Some kids excitedly responded, "We're
made up of cells from our mom and dad!" Another student shared, "I
read a story once about erythrocytes and leukocytes." Hearing their
understanding of cells, we feel really excited, as if witnessing the
blossoming of young scientists.
To dive deeper into the "Cell Kingdom," we guided the children on an
imaginative journey of discovery. We used vivid analogies to make
cell structures easy to grasp: the nucleus as the "brain," the cell
membrane as "customs," the cytoplasm as "soil," the endoplasmic
reticulum as the "delivery man," and the vacuole as a "reservoir."
These vivid analogies captured the children's attention, and they
eagerly noted down their insights in their notebooks, fully immersed
in the learning experience.
The kids learn best through hands-on practice. With our help, the
students rapidly started to make their own cell designs. They
enthusiastically drew pictures of cell structures using vibrant
colors, gaining a deeper understanding of cell structure and
composition through this hands-on approach. This interactive method
not only sparked their curiosity but also encouraged creative
expression, allowing them to explore the intricate functions of
cells through their artwork.
As the event drew to a close, the children proudly showed their
creations, each offering their unique perspective on the world of
cells. Their faces beamed with a sense of accomplishment and pride.
At last, we encouraged them to write down their reflections and
share the inspiration gained from the activity. Many kids expressed
that the experience deepened their understanding of cell structure
and sparked enthusiasm for biology. This sharing not only enriched
their knowledge but also fostered their scientific thinking and
curiosity.
Theme: Exploring Microorganisms
Date: April 9, 2024, morning
Location:
Jiefang Road Primary School, Changchun City, Jilin Province
Participants: 44 students in Grade 5
In the hidden realms of our ecosystem, microorganisms play a crucial
yet often invisible role. They help maintain ecological balance,
drive energy and nutrient cycles, and aid in environmental
restoration. On the morning of April 9, we visited Jiefang Road
Primary School in Changchun to engage fourth graders in an exciting
educational journey. The activity, themed "Exploring
Microorganisms," offered a captivating look into these vital
organisms and their essential contributions to our world.
Primary school is the foundation of nine years of Chinese compulsory
education, shaping students' attitudes and enthusiasm towards
learning, which influences their future learning journey and subject
interests. We guided the children into the fascinating world of
microorganisms, introducing them to the structures of common
microbes such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. We also launched a
discussion on "The Pros and Cons of Microorganisms," and the
students eagerly participated, engaging actively with us.
The children's curiosity was remarkable, and they asked many
insightful questions about microorganisms, such as what kinds of
bacteria cause tetanus and under what circumstances, among other
perceptive inquiries regarding microbes. Their eager curiosity shone
through in every question, and our team members patiently responded,
fulfilling their role as enthusiastic guides.
By creating their own clay microorganisms, we gave the kids a
special chance to bring out their creativity. Science and art were
brought together in a great way by their creative and imaginative
energy, which allowed them to comprehend the beauty of both nature
and culture. We hope other iGEM teams will be inspired to
incorporate similar artistic elements into their educational
activities.
To broaden the children's horizons and introduce them to synthetic
biology and the iGEM competition, we started by showing a "What is
iGEM?" video created by our team in 2023. We encouraged them to look
beyond the classroom and explore the limitless possibilities of
cutting-edge science and technology, sparking their enthusiasm and
curiosity for science.
Now, let's capture the moment with a photo of the CJUH-JLU-China
team and the kids from Jiefang Road Primary School, proudly
showcasing their experience with iGEM. We can't wait to see these
young explorers light up future iGEM stages and make significant
contributions to the world of synthetic biology!
See you next time!
Formal Operations Stage(12~adult)
Adolescents at this stage can propose and test hypotheses, perform
hypothesis-deductive reasoning, and exhibit abstract and flexible
thinking. Their cognitive development is nearly at an adult level.
Therefore,
educational activities for this age group should focus on practical
applications and interactive learning experiences , helping them to validate and apply their reasoning abilities in the
real world, turning theoretical knowledge into practical abilities.
For each educational activity, we invested in significant preparation.
We visited 3 middle schools and 6 high schools, organizing 9 unique
activities that brought 886 students to the fascinating world of
synthetic biology and introduced the iGEM competition to them .
Notably, following in-depth research, we chose Zibo, Shandong
Province, as the primary region for our synthetic biology educational
activities . This decision is based on Zibo's prominent position in China's
synthetic biology landscape. Thanks to strong government support,
abundant research institutions, frequent academic activities, and a
flourishing synthetic biology industry, Zibo has become a key hub for
the development and dissemination of synthetic biology in China. By
conducting outreach in such a well-developed area, we can efficiently
utilize local resources and more effectively cultivate student interest
and participation. By engaging with local students, we hope to ignite
their early interest in synthetic biology and potentially inspire more
of them to consider it as a future career path.
During the middle school sessions, we presented some amazing iGEM
projects from previous years, demonstrating how synthetic biology can be
used to address practical issues. To make the lessons even more
engaging, we first attempted to combine scratch art with popular science
related to heart protection.
For the high school students, we use college entrance exam
questions as a starting point for our presentations, helping them to
better learn and apply new knowledge in a testing environment that they
are already familiar with. We lead them step-by-step as they investigate
complex concepts in synthetic biology.
Aesthetic education and science education can mutually enhance and
support each other . To highlight this, we've designed a special themed session that
shines a spotlight on past iGEM projects that artfully wove together
creativity and romance with scientific exploration. We hope students
will examine the world through more open and creative lenses, combining
rational thought with emotional depth, and become well-rounded
individuals who possess both scientific literacy and aesthetic
appreciation. When we listen to
students from Yitong No. 1 High School located in a remote area
discussing about the iGEM with such enthusiasm, we can feel their
tremendous desire to become a part of this amazing creative community.
Our all-English presentations at Jilin University Affiliated High
School International Division
unlocked a window to a new world for these students and help them
develop their cross-cultural communication and global perspectives.
We are always impressed by their creative and critical thinking during
every conversation. T
hey never cease to inspire us, whether they are responding to a
variety of inquiries from middle school students or having in-depth
discussions with high school students .
Middle School:
Theme: Journey into Synthetic Biology
Date: February 21, 2024, Afternoon
Location: Online (Tencent Meeting)
Participants:
265 middle school students from the Zichuan Economic Development
Experimental School
In light of the enthusiastic responses from high school students
during the themed activity of exploring the world of synthetic
biology, we were eager to pass on the charm of synthetic biology to
more students in Zibo. This time, we collaborated with Zichuan
Economic Development Experimental School to introduce synthetic
biology to 265 middle school students. As they are just starting to
explore biology, we aimed to ignite their curiosity, deepen their
understanding of biology, and show them how synthetic biology can
offer innovative ways of thinking and exciting opportunities for
practical scientific applications.
Introducing Key Concepts and Understanding Vividly
Using vivid analogies, such as comparing restriction enzymes to
'scalpel', we illustrated their role in precisely editing genetic
information.
To explain parts, we used the LEGO bricks analogy—each part fits
together like LEGO pieces to construct complex biological systems,
helping students better grasp the core concepts of synthetic
biology.
Interactive Voting and Knowledge Reinforcement:
We utilized the polling feature in Tencent Meeting to engage
students in an interactive voting session. They answered questions
about key concepts in synthetic biology and its local applications,
which helped deepen their understanding and enhanced participation.
At the same time, we also learned about their mastery so as to
adjust the meeting process.
Scenario Simulation and Creative Challenge:
We created two scenario cards, titled "Soil Cleaner – The Super
Microbe" and "Drought Warrior – Genetically Modified Crops,"
encouraging students to tackle real-world challenges using synthetic
biology.
Students formed teams freely, brainstormed ideas through online
discussions, and presented their innovative solutions, gaining
hands-on experience in how synthetic biology can be applied to solve
real-world problems.
Scenario Card 1: Create the "Soil Cleaner" – The Super Microbe
Scenario Description: With the rise of industrialization and
agricultural activities, soil pollution has become a worldwide
problem, impacting both crop growth and the environment. Now it's
your team's chance to make a difference! You've been given the
exciting mission to design a powerful microbe that can not only
break down harmful pollutants like heavy metals (lead or cadmium)
or organic chemicals (like petroleum) but also boost soil health
in the process.
Challenges and Tasks:
Find Your Cleaner: Dive into the world of microbes! Imagine or
research an existing microbe, like bacteria or fungi, that already
has some natural ability to clean soil.
Give It Superpowers: Let your creativity loose! Enhance your
microbe with special abilities, like quickly locating and
absorbing dangerous pollutants.
Protect the Ecosystem: Don't forget to make your super microbe
eco-friendly! You need to ensure that it helps clean the soil
without harming beneficial bacteria and plants.
Scenario Card 2: Drought Warrior – Genetically Modified Crops
Scenario Description: With climate change causing more frequent
droughts, crops everywhere are struggling to survive. Now it's up
to your team to tackle this challenge head-on! Using cutting-edge
gene-editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9, your mission is to create a
crop that not only thrives in drought conditions but also grows
quickly and conserves water—saving the future of farming.
Challenges and Tasks:
Study the Crop: Begin by researching which crop faces the most
challenges from drought, whether it's wheat, corn, or rice. Learn
why water is essential for its growth.
Design a Super Crop: Develop a gene-editing plan to help your crop
either store more water or reduce water loss during dry periods.
Use your scientific creativity to solve this challenge.
Keep It Eco-Friendly: Make sure your super crop works in harmony
with nature, ensuring it doesn't harm other organisms or disrupt
the environment's balance.
The growth of synthetic biology in Zibo played a key role in
supporting this event, and the students' enthusiastic involvement
was a testament to its success. Through the online platform, we were
able to engage 265 middle school students, significantly boosting
their interest and understanding of synthetic biology. The
innovative ideas and solutions shared by the students were a source
of inspiration for us. Moving forward, we will continue to explore
more creative event formats, leveraging the wide reach of online
platforms to further spark students' curiosity and passion for
scientific exploration.
Topic:
Synthesizing the Future -- Science Popularization Seminar
Date: March 19, 2024, morning
Location:
Jilin University Affiliated Middle School, Changchun City, Jilin
Province
Participants: 45 students in Grade 7
In order to arouse the middle school students' passion for synthetic
biology and encourage them to explore this emerging field full of
exciting and innovative research opportunities, on the morning of
March 19th, we visited the Affiliated Middle School of Jilin
University to give a lecture titled "Synthesizing the Future."
Middle school is a crucial period for establishing a strong
foundation in scientific knowledge, so developing good note-taking
habits is essential. We provided each student with a lovely notebook
before the activity, encouraging them to capture key points from the
lecture. This lecture aims to enhance their study habits and help
them review the new knowledge more effectively.
After the activity started, we put a question to the students:
"Given your basic understanding of biology from your previous
lessons, can you guess what synthetic biology is?" The students
started brainstorming and came up with various speculations. Some
guessed, "Synthetic biology is about synthesizing different cells."
Others proposed, "Synthetic biology means combing different genes to
create something we want." As they were thinking up their ideas, the
students were engaged in speculation, thus activating their
knowledge reserves and sharpening their thinking skills; This
exercise not only deepened their interest in synthetic biology but
also increased their eagerness for the upcoming presentation.
We used vivid real-life analogies to make key concepts more
understandable. For instance, we compared the tools used in genetic
engineering to "scalpels," "sutures," and "delivery trucks", helping
students easily grasp the functions of these biological instruments.
When we discussed the application of BioBricks in the fabrication of
artificial organs, the classroom was filled with amazement as
students envisioned the future of science.
We presented the high school iGEM participants' project
accomplishments and exploration stories to help students understand
that synthetic biology is a field that is not too distant from them.
The passion and dedication of these iGEMers deeply resonated with
every student in the room, leaving a lasting impression on them.
At the end of the presentation, the students came up with many
insightful ideas, such as creating an Oral tumor cell eliminator
using BioBricks, detecting pesticides in vegetables with biosensors,
and engineering genes to address mutations caused by nuclear
radiation. These suggestions not only reflect their understanding of
the fundamental concepts of synthetic biology but also highlight
their anticipation and in-depth thinking about the future of
scientific advancements.
Through distributing notebooks, interactive sessions, concept
explanations, project presentations, and thoughtful feedback, we
patiently guided middle school students in developing good study
habits and creating a full learning-to-application cycle. We
successfully built a bridge to the world of synthetic biology for
them. On this sunny morning, we sowed seeds of hope, looking forward
to the day when they will blossom into brilliant flowers of
scientific discovery.
Please read "Design the heart in your mind"
High School:
Theme:
Discovering the Romance of iGEM: A Symphony of Science and Art
Date: January 20, 2024，morning
Location:
Changchun No. 17 High School，Changchun City, Jilin Province
Participants: 47 students in Grade 11
Exploring synthetic biology is not just a rational pursuit, but it
should also be a journey that embraces both creativity and
aesthetics. To ignite students' interest in this cutting-edge field,
we've meticulously designed an educational activity that blends
science, art, and romance. We focus on highlighting the unique
aesthetics of iGEM, making it the central theme of our activity as
we guide students into the captivating world of synthetic biology.
Foundation Building: An Overview of Synthetic Biology and Exploring
iGEM
We guided students through the basics of synthetic biology with
engaging examples and interactive explanations, covering essential
concepts like genetic and metabolic engineering. Following this, we
offered a detailed look at the history, competition rules, and
standout projects of iGEM, helping students develop a profound and
meaningful understanding of the competition's significance and
impact.
Romantic Explorations: The Fusion of Science and Art in iGEM
Projects
iGEM is more than just a premier competition in synthetic biology,
it is a romantic journey where the unveiling of scientific wonders
intertwines with the creation of beauty. We want to impart this
unique sense of romance to students, helping them appreciate the
elegance and inherent beauty of synthetic biology. By showcasing a
carefully chosen selection of exceptional iGEM projects, we explore
the scientific principles and artistic ingenuity behind each one.
These projects not only represent the cutting edge of synthetic
biology but also illustrate the harmonious fusion of science and art
in the microscopic realm, inspiring students to envision the
limitless beauty of science.
Cambridge-2009
In 2009, the University of Cambridge's "E. chromi" project
ingeniously combined synthetic biology with artistic expression by
engineering E. coli bacteria to produce a diverse palette of colors.
These "living pigments" were designed not only to function as
environmental sensors, detecting pollutants by changing color, but
also to explore the concept of organisms as a form of dynamic art
within the human environment. This innovative approach triggered
substantial discussion about the future role of biology in society
and was showcased at numerous international art exhibitions,
showcasing the profound impact that the fusion of science and art
can have in shaping new possibilities for the future.
Stockholm-2023
The Stockholm team's "LuciPEP" project beautifully blends scientific
innovation with the natural beauty of light. By using bioluminescent
proteins to detect microplastics, they've created a method that is
both technically sophisticated and visually captivating. The
bioluminescence reveals hidden pollutants, lighting the way like a
beacon toward a future of environmental sustainability. This
transformation of invisible microplastics into visible, glowing
points of light metaphorically illuminates the path to a cleaner,
greener world. This experience draws students into the romance of
science, revealing the endless possibilities where technology meets
art.
Deep Dive Experience: Short Film Viewing and Inspirational Stories
During the "Science and Art" session, students watched videos about
iGEM projects, leading to a discussion about how science and art can
creatively intertwine. They shared their insights and feelings about
the art expression within the projects. In the following "Romance in
Science" segment, we shared the real-life journeys behind these iGEM
projects, focusing on the challenges, teamwork, and triumphs in the
lab. These real stories offered students a deeper appreciation for
the human element in scientific exploration, emphasizing the passion
and perseverance that fuel innovation.
Interactive Feedback: A Fusion of Ideas and Newfound Inspiration
At the end of the activity, students expressed how it had broadened
their horizons and reshaped their understanding of the relationship
between science and art. One student enthusiastically said, "I had
no idea that science could be so romantic and engaging, beyond just
doing experiments!" This journey of "Discovering the Romance of
iGEM" showed us that when science and art come together, the result
can be something truly special and inspiring.
Topic: What is iGEM?
Date: January 28th，2024，afternoon
Location:
Yitong No.1 Middle School，Yitong Manchu Autonomous County,
Siping City, Jilin Province
Participants: 65 students in Grade 12
On January 28th, we entered Yitong No.1 Middle School in Yitong
County, Siping City, Jilin Province, to pass on a brand-new concept
"iGEM" to the students there.
In this county high school located in a remote area, iGEM was
completely unfamiliar for both teachers and students. We conducted
close two-way dialogues with both these groups. This was also the
first time we communicated with the teacher group.
The teachers were a new group for us. We introduced to them that
high school students could participate in iGEM. The teachers of
Yitong No.1 Middle School also expressed that they hoped to lead the
students to the broader field of synthetic biology and further
impart knowledge and cultivate more talents in the field of
synthetic biology through iGEM. We also indicated that we could
cooperate with this school in the future and offer assistance to
high school students.
For high school students, we introduced to them that the iGEM covers
various fields of life by explaining the cases of the "Taste
Detector" team of Beijing Institute of Technology in 2021 and the
team of Beijing Normal University in 2019 that selected intestinal
microorganisms to promote the consumption of fatty acids in the
human body and solve the problem of obesity. We called on these high
school students to participate in iGEM at all stages of their
academic careers, including high school, university, and
postgraduate studies.
At the same time, we told these potential participants of iGEM that
participating in the iGEM competition could not only gain rich and
colorful scientific research and social practice experiences, but
they could also grow with the help of teammates; most importantly,
they could showcase their abilities on the international stage.
Throughout the entire activity, the high school students actively
participated and looked forward to participating in iGEM to enrich
themselves.
Topic: iGEM: Exploring the World of Synthetic Biology
Date: January 31, 2024, morning
Location:
Zibo No. 4 High School, Zibo city, Shandong Province
Participants: 51 Students in Grade 12
To enhance high school students' understanding of synthetic biology,
we've designed an engaging activity that combines hands-on
scientific exploration with creativity and interactive learning.
Taking place at Zibo No. 4 High School in Zibo city, Shandong
Province, this event is aimed at ensuring effective knowledge
dissemination and maximizing our impact.
Why Zibo?
Through extensive research, we identified Zibo as an ideal place for
effectively sharing knowledge and making a substantial impact. As
the host of the Synthetic Biology Development Summit for the past
two years, Zibo has established itself as a leading center for
synthetic biology in China. Zibo benefits from substantial
government funding and policy support, which has fostered the growth
of top-tier research institutions and cutting-edge laboratories.
Additionally, the city' s thriving biotech industry, marked by
numerous pioneering biotech companies and innovative projects,
creates a vibrant ecosystem for scientific advancement and practical
application. By taking advantage of Zibo's unique background and
resources, we seek to spark an early interest in synthetic biology
among local students and encourage them to explore it as a promising
career path.
SynBio Solutions Workshop: In this workshop, students are divided
into groups and tasked with tackling real-world challenges related
to synthetic biology, such as designing a disease-resistant plant or
enhancing the nutritional content of a specific crop. Each group
will be provided with key resources, such as fundamental biological
concepts, metabolic pathway examples, and case studies, which
they'll leverage to brainstorm and develop creative solutions. They
will then present their ideas through illustrations or models,
simulating the practical applications of synthetic biology.
Local Application Showcase: We highlighted local examples of
synthetic biology applications in Zibo, demonstrating how the city
leverages this technology to enhance agricultural production and
environmental protection. Additionally, we featured prominent local
companies in the synthetic biology field, showing how they use these
principles in their production processes. This helped students see
how synthetic biology directly impacts their daily lives and
deepened their connection to the subject, making the learning
experience more meaningful and engaging.
Interactive Q&A and Career Guidance: We have organized a special
consultation session to assist high school seniors with their
college major decisions. Students will have the opportunity to
engage directly with our iGEM team members, asking questions about
synthetic biology and the iGEM, and exploring how they might join
the iGEM community in college. Additionally, we will provide career
planning advice, including insights into relevant university courses
and career prospects in synthetic biology to help students better
map out their academic and professional futures.
As the activity came to an end, a seed of inspiration for synthetic
biology was planted in the hearts of these 51 students. In the near
future, some may pursue opportunities in this field, leveraging
their skills and knowledge to tackle real-world challenges. Zibo,
with its thriving atmosphere for synthetic biology, will continue to
witness and support the growth of these budding young scientists.
In this county high school located in a remote area, iGEM was
completely unfamiliar for both teachers and students. We conducted
close two-way dialogues with both these groups. This was also the
first time we communicated with the teacher group.
The teachers were a new group for us. We introduced to them that
high school students could participate in iGEM. The teachers of
Yitong No.1 Middle School also expressed that they hoped to lead the
students to the broader field of synthetic biology and further
impart knowledge and cultivate more talents in the field of
synthetic biology through iGEM. We also indicated that we could
cooperate with this school in the future and offer assistance to
high school students.
For high school students, we introduced to them that the iGEM covers
various fields of life by explaining the cases of the "Taste
Detector" team of Beijing Institute of Technology in 2021 and the
team of Beijing Normal University in 2019 that selected intestinal
microorganisms to promote the consumption of fatty acids in the
human body and solve the problem of obesity. We called on these high
school students to dropicipate in iGEM at all stages of their
academic careers, including high school, university, and
postgraduate studies.
At the same time, we told these potential participants of iGEM that
participating in the iGEM competition could not only gain rich and
colorful scientific research and social practice experiences, but
they could also grow with the help of teammates; most importantly,
they could showcase their abilities on the international stage.
Throughout the entire activity, the high school students actively
participated and looked forward to participating in iGEM to enrich
themselves.
Topic: Step into synthetic biology
Date: March 19th, 2024, morning
Location:
International Department of the Experimental School Attached to
Jilin University High School, Changchun city, Jilin Province
Participants: 9 students in Grade 11
In order to enable high school students who will study abroad in the
future to understand synthetic biology, we entered the International
Department of the Experimental School Attached to Jilin University
High School in Changchun.
The International Department of the High School Attached to Jilin
University is a functional and teaching department affiliated with
the high school department of the Experimental School Attached to
Jilin University. So far, the International Department has achieved
a 100% enrollment rate continuously, and 70% of the graduates have
received offers from the world's top 50 universities, such as New
York University, McGill University, and the University of Hong Kong.
We contacted Teacher Zhu from the International Department to learn
about the basic situation of the students. During the communication
with the teacher, we realized that the children in the second year
of the International Department are at a critical stage of
determining their direction and applying to their dream
universities. So, we carefully prepared the content in English,
aiming to popularize the relevant knowledge of synthetic biology and
iGEM for the students who are about to enter the application season.
Before the presentation began, we conducted a small survey of the
students present to count the universities they hoped to apply to,
the countries they wanted to go to, and the majors they wanted to
study. The students were all very enthusiastic in sharing their
future plans with us. Through conversations with the students, we
learned that more than half of the students in the International
Department wanted to choose majors such as biology, medicine, and
computer science, and in the future, they wanted to apply to
renowned universities such as the University of California, San
Diego, the University of Sydney, and New York University. They all
expected to learn about synthetic biology.
Based on our previous understanding, we learned that the students in
the International Department have all learned computer languages and
can program in Java language. So, we introduced the concept of
synthetic biology with a knowledge they were familiar with -- code.
After the basic content was introduced, we delved into the
applications of synthetic biology and its interdisciplinary and
diverse nature. At the same time, we introduced vivid cases such as
the "toggle switch" developed by biomedical engineers at Boston
University to enable the students to have a deeper understanding of
this field.
After introducing the basic concepts, applications, and development
process of synthetic biology, in order to test whether the students
had deeply understood what synthetic biology was through the
lecture, we raised a small question. Among the following three
options A, B, and C, which option best represents synthetic biology?
After a brief thought, the students unanimously gave the correct
answer, Option A. It seems that everyone listened very carefully.
Give them a thumbs up for their learning ability!
Subsequently, we played the 2023 competition summary video released
by iGEM officially for the students and communicated with them about
how high school students could participate in the iGEM competition.
The students said that this lecture has strengthened their belief in
studying biology and medicine, and developed a strong interest in
synthetic biology. They hope to participate in iGEM on behalf of
their dream universities after entering the university, challenging
themselves and making their own contributions to scientific
research.
Please read "Taste"
Please read "Ethnic Minority Student"
University
Recruitment Campaign
In the early stage of preparation for the 2024 iGEM project, the
CJUH-JLU-China team held a recruitment campaign on November 20th at
Jilin University. Thanks to a well-coordinated promotional effort,
this activity attracted over 300 students from various disciplines,
including life sciences, clinical medicine, business, arts,
mathematics, and computer science .
The activity commenced with a keynote address by our PI,
Professor Xin Hu, who highlighted the achievements of the 2023
CJUH-JLU-China team, outlined the fundamentals of the iGEM
competition, and emphasized the different awards that participants
could strive for.
Following this, members of the 2023 team
shared their group requirements and competition experiences .
This provided participants with a deeper understanding of the various
roles within synthetic biology and iGEM, guiding them in selecting the
group best suited to their skills and interests.
Professor Hu concluded by
outlining the guidelines for joining the 2024 CJUH-JLU-China iGEM
team , encouraging students to strive for excellence and explore their
creativity.
After the formal sessions, team members
actively engaged with participants , offering practical
support and guidance to recruits as they embarked on their iGEM
journey.
Through Professor Hu's insights and the shared experiences of former
team members, participants gained a better understanding of synthetic
biology and the iGEM.
The activity offered valuable learning opportunities and laid a strong
foundation for future team collaboration , highlighting the CJUH-JLU-China team's commitment to nurturing talent
and fostering academic communication.
Freshman Seminar
While enthusiastic about the new opportunities ahead, many freshmen are
often unaware of the diverse competitions available to them.
In the vibrant university atmosphere, they are eager to explore and
find their path, often needing guidance along the way . To introduce them to iGEM, we invited Professor Hu Xin to design and
lead a freshman seminar titled
"Unlocking iGEM: A Freshman's Guide to Synthetic Biology".
This course centered on iGEM, offering a detailed overview of the
competition's structure and awards, while also integrating fundamental
concepts of synthetic biology. Over 16 sessions, 12 students,
under Professor Hu's expertise, gradually unveiled the complexities of
synthetic biology.
Synthetic Adventure: flying to New Heights
The heart of our mission is the continuous pursuit of innovative
educational platforms . To ignite college students' interest in synthetic biology and
encourage a healthy lifestyle, we creatively integrated frisbee sports
with synthetic biology. This approach lets students explore the
mysteries of synthetic biology while enjoying the thrill of sports. For
more details, please visit
Public participation.
The Old
University for the Aged of Jilin Province: Heart Health Awareness
Outreach
In collaboration with the University for the Aged of Jilin Province, we
organized a heart health awareness outreach, aligning with the college's
mission of providing lifelong learning and enrichment for seniors. This
activity, held on May 22nd, was designed to offer comprehensive and
practical health guidance on the
prevention and treatment of heart disease to senior learners.
We began by introducing heart disease and its common symptoms,
emphasizing the importance of early prevention. Key advice included
maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regularly monitoring body
indicators like blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol to
identify and manage risk factors promptly.
We detailed common diagnostic methods for heart disease, such
as blood tests, electrocardiograms, and echocardiograms, explaining
their basic functions and recommending seniors undergo necessary tests
under medical guidance to avoid anxiety.
Regarding treatments for heart disease, we discussed commonly
used methods including medication and surgery, stressing the
importance of following treatment schedules and attending regular
check-ups.
Finally, we covered post-treatment care, including proper
medication use, dietary adjustments, and mental health support.
This heart health awareness outreach not only provided the senior
college learners with comprehensive knowledge about the prevention and
treatment of heart disease but also offered them a platform to interact
and engage with young iGEMers, fostering mutual learning and
understanding.
Teachers at the University for the Aged of Jilin Province expressed
that they greatly benefited from the interaction and said that it
deepened their understanding of heart disease and left a lasting
impact on the learners .
Jianyin Qixiang Garden Geracomium—Heart Disease Prevention Lecture
The American Heart Association's 2024 global report on heart disease
and stroke reveals that the average age of a first heart attack is
65.6 years for men and 72.0 years for women, underscoring the urgent
need for awareness in elderly populations . In response, we collaborated with Changchun's Jianyin Qixiang Garden
Geracomium to deliver a lecture focused on heart disease prevention.
We customized our lecture to
fit the daily routines and activities of the geracomium
residents.
The lecture covered essential topics such as
diet, exercise, work and rest, and self-monitoring for
maintaining heart health.
We emphasized
proactive measures against chronic conditions like
hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes, all closely linked to
heart disease. The elderly participants listened attentively, and the
staff at geracomium also recorded the content of the lecture using
their mobile phones.
After the lecture, we introduced the
cardiac health exercises we created. Considering some elderly
attendees had limited mobility, we modified the jumping exercises to
better suit their needs, which was warmly welcomed.
Participants found the lecture highly informative,
deepening their understanding of heart disease prevention .
They engaged actively by asking relevant questions, all of which we
addressed comprehensively.
This initiative empowered elderly participants with vital knowledge,
fostering proactive health management and regular check-ups.
Through these efforts, our goal is to enhance awareness of heart
health and promote health throughout the community .
Activation and Extension
As the saying goes, "The essence of education is one tree shaking
another tree, one cloud pushing another cloud, and one soul awakening
another soul." While exploring new communities,
we hope that the new groups we reach will impact more people, ensuring
that education extends beyond this moment . Here are five of the new groups we targeted:
ethnic minority students, preppies, teachers, community workers, and
parents .
Ethnic Minority Student
In China, a vast country with 56 ethnic groups, ethnic minorities make
up just 8% of the total population . Our team also includes a team member from an ethnic minority. Through
her involvement in the iGEM community, she has gained extensive
knowledge in synthetic biology. However, she realized that many students
with similar backgrounds still face challenges in accessing and
understanding this field. Therefore, we decided to bring advanced
synthetic biology education to more ethnic minority communities to
bridge this educational gap.
Moreover, these students can share their newfound knowledge with their
hometowns, benefiting people in remote areas .
Our journey began at Beijing's Dayu Middle School, which hosts a special
class known as the Xinjiang High School Class.
This class brings together nearly 300 exceptional students from
various ethnic groups, including Uygur, Kazakh, Hui, and Kyrgyz . These students have moved from frontier regions like Xinjiang to
coastal cities to receive higher-quality education, supported by
educational policies.
Our team's ethnic minority iGEMer shared her personal experiences,
discussing the challenges she faced in iGEM and how she overcame them
, as well as the valuable experience through teamwork. She also talked about her contact with young scientists from around
the world during iGEM, broadening her horizons and building
international friendships. This not only sparked the students' interest
in science but also showed them the limitless possibilities for their
futures.
Our vision goes beyond the present. We are committed to forming enduring
partnerships and creating multilingual educational resources for
ethnic minority communities. This year, we took a step towards this goal
by translating the children's picture book "Invisible Bacteria" into the
Uighur language (for the Uighur Nationality), Tibetan language (for the
Tibetan Nationality), and Korean language (for the Korean Nationality).
This ensures that our science education can benefit a larger community,
including ethnic minority groups. For more details, see "Preoperational
Stage" Our aspiration for next year is to develop multilingual popular
science handbooks in more languages to engage more readers with the
wonders of science.
We were thrilled to receive positive feedback from students. One
student, who returned to his home in Yili, Xinjiang during the summer,
contacted us with excitement.
He shared how he had been explaining synthetic biology to his younger
siblings, inspired by what he had learned . Their curiosity and enthusiasm were incredibly encouraging. Following
this uplifting news, we sent him the Uighur version of the children's
book, hoping that more children will soon open the door to a new world
of knowledge through these resources.
Teacher
Teachers are crucial figures in the dissemination of knowledge and
shoulder the responsibility of education. They are not merely imparters
of information but also essential guides and inspirers on students'
growth paths.
If teachers deeply understand and master this cutting-edge knowledge,
they can pass it on to successive generations of students, thus
creating a lasting and profound effect . Therefore, introducing our concept to teachers is extremely
important.
After each educational activity in the school,
we hold one-on-one meetings with the teachers and engage in more
in-depth conversations with them about synthetic biology and iGEM . In these two-way interactions, teachers can not only discuss their
doubts but also share their own insights. More importantly, teachers
provided us with feedback, thus forming a positive cycle where we can
continuously refine and optimize our teaching approaches.
Teacher Zhu from the International Department of the Affiliated High
School of Jilin University stated that they are very willing to
integrate elements of synthetic biology into classroom teaching to
stimulate students' scientific interests and exploration spirits . Specifically, when explaining the concept of genetic engineering,
Teacher Zhu planned to introduce the principle and application of CRISPR
technology and compare it to "gene scissors" through vivid metaphors.
This vivid metaphor will help students better understand how to
precisely edit and modify the genome.
Teacher Zhu also planned to guide students to participate in
discussions on actual CRISPR cases through interactive teaching and
experimental activities, enabling them to deeply explore how this
cutting-edge technology impacts multiple fields such as medicine and
agriculture . This teaching method not only keeps students learning traditional
scientific knowledge but also encourages them to think about the
application of synthetic biology in the real world so that they can be
exposed to this exciting scientific knowledge early.
What is even more worthy of mention is that teachers have shown high
appreciation for our educational activities . They suggest that we add some vivid video materials during the
lecture to make the content more vivid and lively, thereby further
enhancing students' learning experience.
Parents
In the promotion of synthetic biology, introducing it to parents is a
crucial step.
As the primary educators in a child's life, parents play a vital role
not only in guiding them through the wonders of the world but also in
influencing their development and character .
As an interdisciplinary field integrating biology, engineering, computer
science, and other disciplines, synthetic biology has inestimable value
for cultivating children's scientific literacy and innovative thinking
in terms of popularizing its knowledge.
When we convey the wonder and practicality of synthetic biology to
parents, they become a crucial bridge for the transmission of this
knowledge . This can help foster the next generation of innovators through
simple, everyday moments. For example, during family meals, they might
explain how certain foods are produced, introducing the idea of genetic
engineering. Or when environmental issues are under discussion, they
could mention the role synthetic biology plays in conservation and
pollution control.
These everyday conversations can naturally ignite children's
curiosity, encouraging them to explore the real-world applications and
future potential of synthetic biology .
Last summer, we had the opportunity to carry out volunteer teaching
activities at Dongjian'an Primary School in Shanxi Province, introducing
synthetic biology to children in rural areas.
This year, we followed up with three parents to explore how the
long-term impact of the volunteer teaching activities . Through video calls, we discussed not only the children's growth but
also how the volunteer teaching activities may have influenced their
approach to education. The parents gave highly positive feedback, noting
that volunteer teaching activities significantly expanded their
children's horizons and made them more aware of the value of science
education. They also mentioned that since then, they have been more
focused on encouraging their children to observe, think critically, and
explore, integrating science concepts into their daily learning.
In addition, we provided parents with a detailed explanation of the
fundamental concepts and core ideas of synthetic biology, helping them
integrate scientific elements into their daily lives and continually
spark their children's interest and curiosity in science . We highlighted synthetic biology's potential to address real-world
challenges, such as enhancing crop yields through gene editing or using
microorganisms to decompose pollutants, helping parents understand the
relevance of these topics to their children's future development.
We encouraged parents to make science a shared experience by engaging
in hands-on family experiments , such as observing plant growth or observing how yeast ferments sugar
to produce gas, turning scientific discovery into an enjoyable family
activity that deepens their children's interest in synthetic biology.
With these interactions, we expect to build
a more cohesive and productive cooperation mechanism , jointly
create a more diverse learning environment for children's growth and
development, and enable more children to understand and fall in love
with synthetic biology.
Community Worker
Community workers play a crucial role in the daily life of residents,
directly reaching a wide range of people and serving as an important
link for publicizing information . By raising their awareness of heart health, we can help more
residents understand the importance of protecting their heart.
To achieve this goal, we organized a special activity in the Jinhua
Community of Changchun, themed
"Hand in Hand with Residents, Together Protecting Hearts."
During the activity, we introduced community workers to heart health
exercises, encouraging them to promote regular physical activity among
residents. In addition, we displayed a tutorial video on
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and performed live
demonstrations to train community workers in proper CPR procedures,
recommending that they give residents cardiac emergency training.
Community workers provided feedback expressing their dedication to
planning heart health-related community events and promptly advising
residents who smoke or drink excessively . The awareness of maintaining health in the community will be enhanced
and citizens' understanding of heart health will rise dramatically as a
result of these measures.
Innovation and Edutainment
iGEMers' Day: Dive into a day as an iGEMer
To provide participants with a comprehensive and in-depth experience of
the unique charm of the iGEM, while encouraging them to explore
synthetic biology on a deeper level,
we meticulously designed and successfully held "iGEMers' Day"—a
full-day immersive event .
The event was carefully structured to allow participants to engage with
the core aspects of iGEM, gaining firsthand insights into the key roles
and challenges faced by each group of teams throughout the competition.
For the event, we invited 15 passionate freshmen with a strong
curiosity for life sciences, dividing them into five groups of three . This arrangement ensured effective teamwork and offered each
participant ample opportunity for active engagement and hands-on
practice.
The event was divided into six core segments, starting with an overview
of the iGEM competition, and then shifting focus to the specific goals
and tasks of each team:
the Experiment team, the Modeling team, the Presentation team, the
Human Practices team, and the Wiki team. During each segment,
experienced team members provided in-depth explanations, followed by
practical challenges tied to the daily tasks of each group . These tasks not only tested participants' theoretical knowledge but
also emphasized the importance of hands-on practice, ensuring that they
can understand and master knowledge thoroughly in the process of
problem-solving.
To make the event more engaging and memorable, we designed a unique
ticket made from seed paper, embedded with seeds from flowers like
cornflowers and sunflowers. After the event,
participants could plant their ticket, water it, and watch it bloom
into a beautiful reminder of their experience . The ticket also featured all the event details and had reserved
spaces for stamps, turning it into a personalized keepsake.
To boost enthusiasm and engagement, we designed custom stamps
representing each of the five iGEM teams.
As participants completed each task, they were rewarded with a unique
stamp . After completing the tasks from all five team tracks, they proudly
received the final 'HeartEcho' stamp, marking their achievement and the
successful end of the event. This well-planned design not only increased
interaction and enjoyment but also left participants with a strong sense
of accomplishment and a deeper connection to the experience.
The event was highly successful, with participants actively engaged and
completing every challenge. Many praised the event's innovative approach
and expressed keen interest in joining future iGEM competitions.
We hope this format will continue to spark curiosity and inspire more
people to explore the distinctive excitement of iGEM .
Part 1 The Introduction of iGEM
iGEM Introduction: We provided a thorough and multi-dimensional
introduction to iGEM, exploring its significant global impact. We
discussed how this competition brings together the brightest young
scientists from across the world to drive innovation and development
in synthetic biology.
Development History: We traced the evolution of the iGEM
competition, from its origins and evolving themes over the years to
its expanding scale and growing number of teams. This journey
highlights not only the competition's adaptability and
forward-thinking spirit but also its vital role in global synthetic
biology education.
iGEM Cycle: We emphasized the unique value of iGEM's cyclical
structure for participants. From selecting a project and designing
experiments to data collection, analysis, and presenting final
outcomes, the iGEM cycle offers participants a comprehensive and
systematic research training process. Each stage's key tasks and
objectives were explained in detail, showing how they interconnect to
form a complete scientific journey.
Awards: We outlined the range of awards, from Medals and
Special Prizes to Village Prizes and Grand Prizes. Each award was
explained in terms of its selection criteria, the significance of
winning, and the positive influence these recognitions have on
participants' personal growth and future career opportunities.
Significance: Whether it's engaging with fellow iGEMers from
across the globe or enhancing personal skills through hands-on
experience, iGEM continues to attract participants with its unique
blend of challenge, growth, and opportunity.
Part 2 Experiment Group
Core Concepts of Synthetic Biology: We provided a structured
overview of this cutting-edge field, covering the innovative design of
biological parts, devices, and systems, and how existing biological
systems can be redesigned to benefit human society. By exploring these
concepts in detail, we built a comprehensive knowledge framework of
synthetic biology for newcomers.
In-Depth Introduction to the Experiment Team's Daily Work:
Using our project Heartecho as an example, we showcased how the
Experiment Team investigates the role of miRNA in cardiovascular
disease and cancer progression. We walked participants through key
steps like plasmid construction, bacterial transformation, and induced
expression. We also shared the challenges faced during experiments and
how we overcame them, giving participants insight into the complexity
and excitement of real scientific research.
Plasmid Construction Methods: We emphasized the distinct
characteristics of plasmids, highlighting their ability to
self-replicate, their genetic stability, and transferability. To
deepen the participants' understanding, we explained the process of
plasmid construction using biological tools like restriction enzymes
and ligases, while also underscoring the importance of international
standards such as RFC [10] in plasmid design.
Explanation of Plasmid Sequencing Techniques: We introduced
Frederick Sanger's pioneering dideoxy chain-termination method,
explaining its fundamental principles and its broad application in
modern biological research. By comparing the strengths and limitations
of traditional Sanger sequencing with next-generation sequencing
(NGS), we helped participants grasp the latest advances in sequencing
technology.
Task Segment: we designed two tasks focusing on plasmid
construction and sequencing result analysis. Participants were
provided with a basic plasmid template to work with using computer
software, and then asked to evaluate a sequencing result, checking its
accuracy and identifying any potential issues. It was exciting to see
their energy and curiosity as they eagerly took on these challenges,
exploring an entirely new area of study with enthusiasm.
Part 3 Model Group
Daily Work Overview: We gave participants a clear overview of
the Modeling team's daily work, from miRNA selection to web coding.
The Modeling team's specialized work integrates smoothly with the
Experiment team, creating a collaborative effort that enhances both
teams' contributions.
Project Introduction: Recognizing that our work could be
challenging for those unfamiliar with the process, we began by
introducing our project from a modeling standpoint. We shared insights
into our exploration of the link between cardiovascular disease and
cancer, showcasing cutting-edge research in the fields of miRNA and
mRNA. Through this, we guided participants in understanding the
mechanism of the miRNA-LIRA system. We helped them quickly grasp the
concept of LIRA's function and provided context on RNA secondary
structure simulations, offering a solid foundation for deeper
engagement with the project's key concepts.
Nupack Software Training: We guided participants through
setting up their Nupack accounts, walking them through the same steps
we followed to design our single-arm LIRA structure. They learned how
to adjust parameters for optimal results, code the LIRA structure, and
interpret the resulting data, giving them hands-on experience with a
professional bioinformatics tool.
Task Segment: Once participants had a solid grasp of the
concepts, we tasked them with designing their own functional
single-arm LIRA structure. Throughout the 30-minute activity, we
offered continuous support, answering questions and refining their
designs. This sparked insightful discussions, such as how to design
miRNA recognition sequences and why our reporter protein only
expresses when the target miRNA activates the RBS and AUG sequences.
By the end, each participant successfully completed their LIRA design,
and after adjusting parameters and validating results, we guided them
through the entire process of creating a functional RNA-based system.
Part 4 Presentation Group
Daily Work Overview: We provided a clear overview of the
Presentation team's core responsibilities, which include accurately
translating documents to ensure our work is well communicated,
organizing and polishing the team's ideas into a cohesive narrative,
and preparing for the Jamboree, where impactful presentations play a
key role in raising the team's visibility.
Document Revision Example: we chose a sample document,
comparing the original version with the revised one. By explaining the
logic behind each change, we highlighted the importance of emphasizing
key points, avoiding unnecessary detail, and maintaining a coherent
and logical structure in written communication.
Valuable Experiences: As a participant in last year's iGEM
competition, the speaker shared valuable lessons from the experience.
These lessons went beyond personal skill development, highlighting the
importance of teamwork, collaboration, and gaining new perspectives.
Jamboree Presentation: We also introduced participants to the
structure of the Jamboree, highlighting key events such as the Team
Booth, Judging Sessions, and Village Presentations. The vibrant
atmosphere and opportunities for engagement at the Jamboree excited
the participants and sparked great interest.
Task Segment: To develop practical skills, we created a
scenario-based task where they imagined collaborating with an
international team to write a synthetic biology handbook. Acting as
members of the Presentation team, they were tasked with drafting a
formal email to invite the other team to join the project. Working in
five groups, the participants actively took on the challenge, refining
their English writing skills while gaining hands-on experience in
communication and teamwork
Part 5 Human Practices
Concept Overview: We divided Human Practices into two main
areas: iHP and Education. For iHP, we introduced Peter Carr's
principle: "Human Practices is about how your work impacts the world
and how the world shapes your work." Our focus was on helping
participants fully understand these core ideas, such as "listening to
the world and giving back to it," and how these ideas help
participants truly understand the integration of human values into
scientific research, promoting a balance between technology and
society. In the Education section, we guided participants through the
process of recognizing what makes an educational initiative
meaningful, emphasizing innovation, real-world relevance, and lasting
impact.
Project Showcase: We highlighted the team's major achievements
this year in both the iHP and Education sections. Using the "Synthetic
Adventure: Soaring to New Heights" event as an example, we detailed
the careful planning, key moments during the event, and post-event
reflections and follow-up actions.
Task Segment: To spark participants' creativity and practical
skills, we designed a challenging task. Each group was assigned to
either come up with a creative event plan using our project proposal
template or find an innovative educational tool that could effectively
promote synthetic biology. Their creativity and understanding were
impressive, resulting in five outstanding projects:
The outcomes are as follows:
Group 1: Inspired by the anime Cells at Work, they proposed a
comic series featuring tumor cells and immune cells as characters.
Each chapter would introduce different human tissues, blending modern
elements by giving each cell a distinct personality.
Group 2: This group aimed to combine traditional Chinese
culture with synthetic biology through oil-paper umbrellas.
Participants would paint synthetic biology elements on the umbrellas,
turning them into DIY projects. These umbrellas would then be
displayed together as a cultural wall for others to admire.
Group 3: This group came up with a board game where famous
figures from the history of synthetic biology serve as character
cards, with their achievements represented as special abilities. The
game would include basic cards like DNA, RNA, and amino acids, as well
as advanced cards that can slow opponents down, such as equipment
failures or biohazard leaks.
Group 4: This group proposed launching public service ads on
subways and buses to raise awareness about synthetic biology. They
also suggested a quiz-based lottery where participants could earn
points for prizes by answering questions related to the field.
Group 5: Targeting children aged 2-6, this group designed
building blocks where each piece represents different concepts, such
as genes or phosphate groups. The goal is to teach children basic
synthetic biology principles through playful learning.
Part 6 Wiki Group
What's Wiki: We began by giving an in-depth explanation of the
concept of "Wiki." Starting with the origins of Wikipedia, we
explained how Wiki serves as a collaborative writing tool and expanded
on its role in iGEM, where teams use their own dedicated web pages to
present their projects and achievements.
What We Do: We introduced participants to the exciting work of
the Wiki team, which centers around three key areas: website design,
diagram creation, and original design. We demonstrated how we craft
visually appealing, user-friendly web pages that effectively highlight
key information. In diagram creation, we emphasized the power of
transforming complex concepts into clear, engaging visuals that make
science accessible. We also shared our creative work in designing
unique team uniforms and themed products, which capture the essence of
our team through striking and memorable visuals.
How Can We Do Better: We engaged participants by sharing how
our Wiki team constantly seeks ways to improve. First, we emphasized
the need to master powerful design tools like Photoshop and Procreate
to meet diverse design needs. We also encouraged them to explore
outstanding design examples to fuel their creativity. Most
importantly, we highlighted the critical role of collaboration with
other teams, ensuring that each design not only looks great but also
perfectly aligns with the project's ultimate goals.
Task Segment: To immerse participants in the creative work of
the Wiki team, we designed an interactive, hands-on task. They
received an English description of an experimental principle and were
tasked with turning it into a compelling visual diagram. This gave
participants the opportunity to step into the shoes of a Wiki team
member, refining their design skills and creativity while gaining
insight into the artistic challenges the Wiki team faces.
21 Days, Let's Make Heart Healthier
In recent years, the incidence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI)
among younger individuals (under 45 years) has markedly increased,
raising significant public health concerns. Epidemiological data show
that the prevalence of myocardial infarction in individuals under 60 has
reached 3.8% [1], reflecting a shift in the burden of the disease toward
younger populations. The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC)
study, conducted over 20 years (1995-2014), provides a comprehensive
analysis of trends in AMI hospitalization rates. This study found that
the proportion of AMI hospitalizations among younger patients increased
from 27% at the initial stage to 32% at the later stage [2],
highlighting the urgency of intervention.
The decline in sleep quality has been identified as a major threat to
heart health, with the risk potentially increasing by as much as 141%
[3]. This underscores the critical importance of improving sleep habits
in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Research conducted by the
University of Oxford and the University of Exeter indicates that falling
asleep between 10 and 11 PM can significantly reduce the risk of
cardiovascular diseases [4], providing the public with scientific
guidelines on healthy sleep patterns.
Behavior change starts with the awakening of consciousness, and the
formation of a habit takes time and dedication. According to behavioral
psychology, it takes at least 21 days to form and reinforce a new habit
or mindset, a concept known as the "21-day effect."
To support the younger generation in developing healthy sleep habits
and protecting their heart health, we launched the "21 Days, Let's
Make Heart Healthier" campaign during the August summer vacation . This 21-day campaign was designed to help participants establish
consistent sleep routines, ultimately reducing the risk of heart
disease.
Our campaign achieved a university-wide scale at Jilin University,
successfully engaging 252 participants from 36 different
departments. Participants tracked their daily sleep routines using a QQ
mini-program. They were encouraged to
fall asleep before 23:00 or ensure a sleep duration of more than 8
hours
and use modern tools like fitness trackers and smartphone apps to
accurately record sleep data.
We are delighted to report that 80 participants, accounting for 31.7%
of the total, successfully completed all 21 days of the challenge . Additionally, 51 students (20.2%) tracked their sleep for 15 to 20
days, while 48 students (19.0%) logged between 7 and 14 days.73
participants (29.0%) recorded fewer than 7 days.
Figure 5. The student completion distribution over 21 days
One of the most encouraging observations from the individual data was
the shift in sleep patterns throughout the challenge. In the beginning,
many participants were going to bed around 11 PM. However, as the
program progressed, a significant number of students adjusted their
bedtime to around 10:30 PM, indicating a positive change toward earlier
sleep.
This shows that our initiative has been effective in helping many
students establish healthier sleep habits .
Figure 6. A compilation of 21-day check-in photos from a classmate's
journey in the activity
The success of this campaign is reflected not only in the positive
changes in participants' behavior but also in the deeper awareness it
has sparked regarding the importance of healthy routines and heart
health. Through feedback surveys, many participants shared that the
program had a meaningful impact on their daily habits. We believe this
campaign marks just the beginning of spreading the message of health.
In the future, we hope more young people will internalize these
healthy sleep practices and actively apply them in their lives,
working together to protect heart health and make their youth shine
even brighter with vitality and well-being.
Reference
1. Salari N, Morddarvanjoghi F, Abdolmaleki A, et al. The global
prevalence of myocardial infarction: a systematic review and
meta-analysis. BMC Cardiovasc Disord. Apr 22 2023;23(1):206.
doi:10.1186/s12872-023-03231-w
2. Arora S, Stouffer GA, Kucharska-Newton AM, et al. Twenty Year Trends
and Sex Differences in Young Adults Hospitalized With Acute Myocardial
Infarction. Circulation. Feb 19 2019;139(8):1047-1056.
doi:10.1161/circulationaha.118.037137
3. Lee S, Mu CX, Wallace ML, et al. Sleep health composites are
associated with the risk of heart disease across sex and race. Sci Rep.
Feb 7 2022;12(1):2023. doi:10.1038/s41598-022-05203-0
4. Nikbakhtian S, Reed AB, Obika BD, et al. Accelerometer-derived sleep
onset timing and cardiovascular disease incidence: a UK Biobank cohort
study. Eur Heart J Digit Health. Dec 2021;2(4):658-666.
doi:10.1093/ehjdh/ztab088
Lab Wonders & Micro Art
To bring the wonder of science to life and show the beauty of the
microscopic world in an artistic way, we organized a Lab Open Day
specifically for university students and primary school children.
Primary School Group:
We welcomed thirteen enthusiastic students from Jilin University
Affiliated Primary School and Changchun Anda Primary School.
Safety Education: Our lab safety officer elaborated on the
emergency exits of the lab and key safety guidelines, including which
items and chemicals to avoid. Each student was equipped with gloves
and participated in a fire drill to practice safety procedures.
Interactive Learning: We explained the experimental procedures
and shared fascinating facts about microorganisms, emphasizing the
importance of frequent hand washing.
Hands-On Activity: Each child received a petri dish pre-filled
with a sterilized agar medium. They labeled their dishes with their
names and divided them into two sections, A and B, for a comparison
experiment. The children used their unwashed fingers to touch the A
section and then, after washing their hands, touched the B section
with their clean fingers.
Results and Reflection: After a week, we sent the students
photos of the bacterial growth on their petri dishes. This visual
evidence vividly demonstrates the impact of hand washing as a hygiene
habit on bacterial growth, linking scientific concepts with daily
practice to make it clearer and more appealing.
University Student Group:
We welcomed ten university students from five different faculties at
Jilin University, including the School of Basic Medicine and the School
of Electronic Information, to our CJUH-JLU-China team lab.
Lab Tour: After basic safety education, the students visited
the lab under the guidance of our safety officer. We demonstrated the
use of key equipment, including the ELISA reader, PCR machine,
centrifuge, and gel electrophoresis apparatus.
Operational Overview: We provided detailed instructions for the
clean bench, covering everything from powering up the equipment and
adjusting airflow to the correct use of various lab tools.
Bacterial Art demonstration: We introduced the art form of
bacterial art to the students, where bacteria act as pigments on agar
plates. We showcased several pre-made bacterial art pieces to inspire
their creativity.
Hands-on creation: Each student received a white E. coli
culture to use as "paint." Guided by lab members, they created designs
on petri dishes, including the iGEM logo, highlighting their artistic
skills and ingenuity.
Feedback: The students expressed that the activity effectively
bridged science with art, enhancing their enthusiasm for biological
sciences.
After a week of incubation at 37°C, the petri dishes revealed stunning
bacterial art. Let's take a look at the creative works produced by both
elementary and university students!
This Lab Open Day successfully combined scientific exploration with
artistic creativity, allowing participants of different ages to engage
with the wonders of the microbial world and ignite their curiosity about
science.
Design the Heart in Your Mind
In our view, education goes far beyond the simple transmission of
textbook knowledge . It should merge with various fields to create novel and engaging
learning experiences. Art, as a universal communication tool ,
its integration with education is undoubtedly an innovative and vibrant
choice. Due to the heart's intricate structure, middle school students
often find it challenging to understand its anatomy. Additionally, the
heart holds rich symbolic meaning as an element of emotional expression
in art. Therefore, we organized the
"Design the Heart in Your Mind" workshop at Jilin University
Affiliated Middle School.
We handed out scratch art paper and bamboo pens to the students,
encouraging them to unleash their creativity and design their own
interpretations of the "heart" . Considering that middle school students might not be familiar with
heart anatomy, we also provided an overview of its basic structure and
function.
The students created artworks full of creativity and imagination . Some carefully illustrated the heart's anatomy, demonstrating
scientific precision, while others infused their design with vibrant
elements like cartoon characters, roses, and wings, reflecting their
personal style. They also included protective slogans in various
languages, adding profound meaning to their own creation.
After finishing their drawing, the students eagerly shared their
creative inspirations. Some used roses to symbolize the heart's
resilience and fragility; others gave the heart wings, representing hope
and rebirth. We were thrilled to see that their works were not only
imaginative but also reflected a profound understanding of heart health.
Through their paint brush, they combined heart health and artistic
creation, emphasizing the importance of protecting the heart .
At the end of the workshop, we introduced the students to the
applications of synthetic biology in treating heart diseases, including
heart repair, regeneration, and gene therapy. The students showed great
interest in synthetic biology, eagerly answering questions posed by our
team members.
Many expressed aspirations to become scientists in the future, driven
by a desire to stay at the forefront of synthetic biology and explore
the vast unknown of this field .
Game
My Little Octopus
In the present digital world, video games have become a major part of
everyday life, with an estimated 3.4 billion users worldwide by 2024.
This impressive figure not only highlights the widespread appeal of
gaming but also its potential to revolutionize education and
entertainment. Our project explores synthetic biology concepts, which
can be hard to grasp through traditional methods.
But what if we could use a fun and simple octopus game to introduce
these ideas in a light-hearted way?
This could spark interest and excitement about our innovative design,
"LIRA," making the experience both enjoyable and educational.
This game features a fresh and charming design that attracts players of
all ages, especially children.
The core element of the game is the "Detect" button, which cleverly
combines the shapes of LIRA and two miRNAs into its icon . By interacting with this button, players naturally connect these
shapes with our project, gradually absorbing the relevant knowledge. The
"Detect" function allows players to identify potential risks and take
"treatment" actions, reflecting our goal of providing a simple initial
screening to lower the cost and discomfort of cancer risk detection for
myocardial infarction patients.
In the game, players become the guardians of a little octopus, needing
to keep a close eye on its condition . When the octopus's stamina bar drops, players must quickly let it
rest; when it feels hungry, they need to feed it small fish. Any delay
in these actions could result in the octopus's "death," creating a sense
of urgency and a deeper connection to the responsibility of caring for a
life.
The game includes multiple descriptions of endings that reflect our
profound understanding of medicine.
The octopus's emotional state plays a key role in determining the
outcome, showcasing our reflections on synthetic biology and medical
science . Players can choose to ignore the octopus's feelings and focus solely
on achieving the "treatment" results, or they can fully commit to
ensuring the octopus's health and happiness. However, pursuing only the
result will lead to less satisfying endings. To be a "good doctor" in
the game, players must genuinely care about the octopus's well-being,
rather than just pushing through the game's progression without regard
for its needs.
This captivating octopus game not only offers players an enjoyable
experience but also subtly imparts knowledge about synthetic biology,
thereby raising public awareness of the field.
Such an educational method undoubtedly brings a deeper insight and a
wider impact on our teaching practices .
Game Guide
Click to read
RevPipes
Welcome to the world of RevPipes, our originally designed game that
combines strategy and science in an exciting, hands-on adventure.
Imagine this: you're at the starting point - a diseased heart - facing a
maze of intricate pipes that twist and turn toward your final
destination - the tumor. What's your mission?
Strategically connect the pipes to create a vascular network, and at
the same time gain an in-depth understanding of Reverse
cardio-oncology .
The gameplay is easy to grasp yet endlessly engaging. With each click,
you'll rotate and connect pipe segments, constructing a smooth path from
heart to tumor. But this is far more than just a simple puzzle game.
Every successful connection unlocks pop-up windows packed with
exciting facts about synthetic biology and knowledge of Reverse
Cardio-Oncology . As you move forward, these interactive pop-ups turn each step into a
fascinating learning experience, ensuring that every move you make
brings you closer to both mastering the game and uncovering the science
behind it.
RevPipes takes you through three exciting levels, each one more
challenging than the last. But don't worry, we know you've got what it
takes to succeed! We have produced the first level so far, and we are
constantly improving it. In a fun and upbeat environment,
you'll dive deeper into the fascinating world of Reverse
Cardio-Oncology while mastering cutting-edge theories in synthetic
biology . You will find that science can be so interesting and so easy to
understand!
Believe me!
Whether you are a student full of curiosity about science or a game
player who enjoys challenging your intelligence, RevPipes will bring
you an unforgettable experience .
SYNO cards
On a night filled with excitement, a group of passionate young
synthetic biology enthusiasts gathered around a table covered with
colorful SYNO cards. Everyone was ready for the game to begin. The
rule was simple: when there is only one card left in hand, shout out
"iGEM!"
SYNO is our uniquely crafted game, inspired by the classic UNO but
integrated with a wealth of synthetic biology knowledge on every card.
The name combines the first three letters of 'synthetic biology' with
'UNO,' creating the ultimate fusion: SYNO!"
In our game, the basic cards represent the four key parts of synthetic
biology: Part, Device, System, and Chassis. Each card is rich in
scientific significance, making the game both fun and educational. The
action cards are even elaborately designed, turning scientific concepts
into immersive game effects.
For example, when the Enhancer card enters the stage, the next player
must draw two cards, instantly boosting the tension and thrill !
But the real excitement comes from the two game-changing power cards—
"Reporter Gene" and "iGEM". "iGEM" is like a game-changer,
forcing your opponent to draw four cards and skip their next turn. The
atmosphere of the game immediately became electrifying!
We brought SYNO to the CCIC (Conference of China iGEMer Community),
where it received enthusiastic praise and acclaim. The highlight was the
"iGEMers' Day" activity, where we introduced SYNO cards to freshmen,
they were excited by the creative and engaging design, which sparked
their enthusiasm and curiosity about synthetic biology.
In this refreshing game, it's not just the cards that are turning; it's
the spirit of science dancing. SYNO, packed with knowledge and fun,
makes every play a new exploration!
Heart Health Puzzle Game
"Remember to check the back of each puzzle piece when you pick
one!"
To help children learn about the symptoms and prevention of heart
disease, we designed a fun and engaging heart puzzle game. The puzzle's
front displays images of a healthy heart and a diseased heart.
When children flip the pieces over, they discover valuable tips on
heart disease prevention, including symptoms and effective prevention
methods . Each time a piece fits correctly, children experience a sense of
achievement, completing a beautiful picture while gaining important
heart health knowledge through interactive play.
To make the game more engaging, we added beautiful designs and cute
decorations, making the puzzle vibrant and lively.
The heart puzzle game is more than just a simple educational toy; it
uses a playful format to help children understand the importance of
heart health . Each completed puzzle not only reflects their progress in
understanding heart health but also encourages them to embrace a healthy
lifestyle for the future.
Multi-sensory learning
The journey of learning is far more than just observing with your
eyes, it is actually a rich, multi-sensory participation . Multi-sensory learning refers to an approach that engages various
senses such as auditory, visual, kinesthetic and tactile through diverse
methods. By creating immersive, well-designed learning environments,
this method stimulates students' senses, enabling them to process
information through multiple sensory channels, including their eyes,
ears, mouth, nose, and body movements. This leads to more comprehensive
and enriched learning experience.
Our new perspective on learning highlights the importance of not just
vision, but also deeply engaging with hearing, touch, taste, and smell .
Vision
Bilibili、Tiktok - iGEMers' Vlog
To give a deeper insight into the excitement and challenges of the iGEM,
we've created the iGEMers' series Vlog. This series not only highlights
our activities but also creates a personal connection with our viewers.
We've shared these vibrant moments on TikTok and Bilibili, allowing
everyone to experience the passion and dedication of iGEMers through
their screens.
We have produced 13 episodes of vlog videos. In these videos, viewers
will witness our dedicated work in the lab and experience firsthand the
exciting moments of our various activities, giving them a taste of the
daily life of an iGEMer.
By presenting these engaging scenes from a first-person perspective,
we aim to bridge the gap between science and the public . Our goal is to turn the technical lab data into a vibrant,
story-filled journey that sparks curiosity and enthusiasm for science,
making the captivating world of synthetic biology more accessible and
appreciated by more people.
WeChat Official Account
We also created a WeChat official account to document each activity in
detail with text and images which could offer in-depth context and
thorough explanations compared to the video platform.
It can help readers grasp the full scope of each event and our efforts .
We have published a total of 20 tweets and received over 10000
views. From intense lab work and creative brainstorming to the meticulous
preparation of activities and celebrating small victories, our posts on
our WeChat official account capture these moments as true reflections of
our team spirit.
Through vivid images and engaging text, we convey the excitement and
stories behind these experiences, allowing readers to feel the energy
and passion through their screens .
Moreover, WeChat's interactive features bring us closer to our
followers.
The enthusiastic feedback and vibrant discussions breathe life into
our updates . Our goal is to communicate the excitement of scientific discovery and
our team's dedication to everyone who follows us, offering insight into
the fascinating world of synthetic biology. This reflects our mission to
spark curiosity and enthusiasm for science with every post.
Hearing
Podcast- Synthetic Miracles: Stories of Pioneers
In this fast-paced information era, how can we make synthetic biology
accessible to a broader public? We found a promising solution: podcasts.
As a popular medium, podcasts have the unique ability to sustain
content and engage listeners over time, something that video and text
often can't achieve . With the widespread use of smart speakers, headphones, and in-car
systems, the ways people listen have diversified, making podcasts an
ideal platform for delivering high-quality content.
Inspired by the iGEM team's successful synthetic biology podcast, we've
decided to launch an innovative storytelling series titled: "Synthetic
Miracles: Stories of Pioneers."
By narrating the tales of scientists who have made significant
contributions to the field, we aim to captivate and inspire our
listeners .
We have produced six meticulously crafted podcast episodes now available
on the Chinese podcast platform Himalaya FM. These episodes explore how
Craig Venter's shotgun sequencing transformed gene sequencing technology
and highlight Drew Endy's innovative concepts in 'standardized
biological parts.' Each episode offers more than scientific information.
It celebrates human creativity and wisdom, immersing listeners in the
wonder and power of knowledge .
We're excited to report that over 30000 listeners have already
discovered the world of synthetic biology through our podcasts. This
success not only acknowledges our efforts but also demonstrates the
potential of innovative communication methods.
Moving forward, we are committed to expanding our science outreach and
sharing the wonders and appeal of synthetic biology with even more
people .
Smell
"Take a sniff, what scent do you think is coming from this black
plastic bag?"
Smell is a powerful tool in multisensory learning, offering unique
benefits.
Studies have consistently shown that smell is closely linked to
memory, with certain scents activating parts of the brain associated
with emotion and memory . This makes learning more immersive and helps students remember
information more firmly.
At iGEMers' Day, we introduced an exciting element to our activities by
integrating the sense of smell opening a new dimension of interactive
learning. During the planning phase, we found that participants were
eagerly anticipating their upcoming visit to a hospital-based science
lab, driven by curiosity about clinical knowledge.
Drawing on this insight, we designed an experience that blended
typical clinical concepts with unique sensory exploration, enhancing
both understanding and memory retention .
We prepared five opaque black plastic bags, each containing an object
with a unique scent and special significance:
a rotten apple, alcohol, garlic, a dead fish, and ammonia . At
the start of the activity, participants were invited to use only their
sense of smell to explore the hidden contents and guess the clinical
implications corresponding to each scent.
Each scent conveyed a distinct clinical insight:
the smell of rotten apples is often tied to conditions like diabetes
or phenylketonuria, while alcohol can hint at alcohol poisoning. A
pungent garlic-like odor suggests organophosphate poisoning, a fishy
smell points to liver failure, and ammonia often signals uremia . By tapping into their sense of smell, participants went beyond simply
learning clinical facts, they were connecting sensory experiences
directly with medical conditions. Our goal was to create a learning
experience that left a lasting impact, making it easier to internalize
concepts while igniting curiosity about how to use our senses to reveal
critical clues in healthcare.
Taste
Taste, an essential part of our sensory world, reveals its rich
diversity in every meal we experience . If we combine this universal sense with advanced synthetic biology,
we can create powerful learning anchors for students and turn every
future taste experience into a trigger for scientific recall.
With this in mind, we have developed "A bite of Synthetic Biology, whose
name is inspired by a Chinese food documentary "A Bite of China".
Using the five basic tastes—sour, sweet, bitter, salty, and spicy—as
entry points, we meticulously designed a learning system that
incorporates the core theories of synthetic biology . Through this innovative approach, traditional taste experiences are
imbued with new scientific meaning. The course combines case studies and
interactive experiments to help students deeply understand complex
concepts such as
receptor binding, metabolic pathway regulation, and the applications
of synthetic biology , ultimately creating vivid scientific images in their minds.
Sourness: We use typical acidic solutions like lemon juice and
vinegar, along with pH test strips, to give students a clear
demonstration of how changes in acidity can directly impact the
environment. Following this, we explore how enzyme activity is
dynamically regulated under different pH levels, highlighting the
crucial role of acid-base balance in biological processes. The goal is
to help students connect observable changes to the underlying
biological mechanisms, building a bridge from macro-level phenomena to
micro-level understanding.
Sweetness: We focus on the molecular recognition process
between sugar molecules and sweet taste receptors, explaining how this
biochemical cascade triggers taste signal transmission and ultimately
leads to the perception of sweetness in the brain. Through this
lesson, students not only learn the basics of receptor-ligand
interactions but are also encouraged to explore the complexity and
precision of biological molecular recognition.
Bitterness: Taking tobacco plants as an example, we will
conduct an in-depth analysis of how plants use the synthesis of bitter
substances (such as diterpene glycosides) as a chemical defense means
to resist the attacks of natural enemies. By studying these complex
metabolic pathways, students' understanding of plant survival
strategies will be strengthened, and the important topic of metabolic
engineering in synthetic biology will also be naturally introduced,
exploring its potential applications in agricultural ecological
regulation and crop improvement.
Saltiness: The perception of saltiness is closely linked to ion
channels inside and outside taste cells. When salt dissolves, it
releases sodium ions (Na⁺) that enter taste cells through these
channels, creating the sensation of saltiness. We examine the
essential role these ion channels play in cellular signaling and their
importance. By comparing how different electrolytes affect cell
function and physiological balance, students gain a deeper
understanding of how electrolyte balance is crucial for maintaining
health laying the foundation for more advanced studies in cell
biology.
Spiciness: we highlight classroom innovation by connecting the
experience of spiciness with three cutting-edge applications of
synthetic biology. First, we explain how synthetic biology techniques
can be used to design microbial factories that produce capsaicin and
its derivatives, offering new opportunities for the food industry and
pharmaceutical development. Next, we explore the development of
spiciness enhancers and their role in modulating taste perception,
helping students broaden their perspectives and spark creative
thinking. Finally, we guide students to consider how gene editing
techniques can be used to improve spicy crops, achieving higher
yields, enhanced disease resistance, and better quality.
In the climax part of the class,
we encourage students to integrate their knowledge by designing and
creating their own "Synthetic Biology Cuisine."
This hands-on activity allows students to closely link the five basic
tastes with synthetic biology theories while experimenting with
innovative cross-flavor combinations. They simulate complex metabolic
pathways and creatively apply receptor-ligand interactions. This process
not only deepens their understanding of scientific concepts but also
significantly enhances their creativity and exploratory spirit.
"A Bite of Synthetic Biology" is not just a fusion of flavors and
science but also a comprehensive exercise in students' innovative
thinking and interdisciplinary integration skills.
It encourages students to break free from traditional academic
boundaries and view the world from a more open and diverse perspective . By bringing complex scientific principles to life through the dance
of flavors on the palate, students experience the boundless charm of the
harmonious coexistence of technology and nature.
Touch
In sensory learning,
touch is the most numerous and complex. Touch nerves are distributed
throughout the body, affecting the broadest range and variety, which
makes its integration in the brain the most significant . To facilitate tactile learning for children, we introduced clay into
the classroom, allowing them to freely create the shapes of
microorganisms. See the
Concrete Operations Stage
for details.
Sustainability
As participants in the field of synthetic biology, we recognize that
true innovation comes not just from exploring the frontiers of science,
but from pushing beyond technological boundaries to create a lasting and
meaningful impact on diverse communities. With this in mind,
we've thoughtfully authored four specialized handbooks, each one
tailored to meet the needs of different audiences . These handbooks are crafted to be both timely and enduring, serving
as guiding resources in the field.
They not only capture the most current scientific advancements but
also look ahead to future developments, ensuring their relevance and
usefulness over time .
Protocol Handbook (for laboratory technicians): This handbook
offers a comprehensive and systematic guide to standardized
experimental procedures, providing researchers with reliable protocols
to ensure consistency and accuracy in their work.
Ethics in Synthetic Biology (for professionals in the field):
This handbook deeply analyzes the ethical challenges and solutions in
the field of synthetic biology, ensuring that innovation aligns with
the well-being of society and the environment.
Synthetic Biology: The "LEGO" of Biology (for those with a
basic understanding of biology): Using clear and accessible language,
this handbook simplifies complex scientific concepts, making it easier
for readers with different levels of biological knowledge to
understand the core principles and applications of synthetic biology.
Ten Practical Tips for Cancer Prevention (for the general
public): This handbook provides scientific and practical
cancer-prevention strategies and lifestyle suggestions, aiming to help
the public take active measures in daily life, reduce the risk of
cancer, and enhance overall health.
These handbooks provide practical guidance for the sustainable
development of synthetic biology, aiming to integrate scientific
research with social responsibility.
We aspire to advance the field by promoting responsible and effective
applications that contribute to the overall progress of society .
Protocol Handbook
This Protocol Handbook is meticulously crafted as a standardized and
systematic guide for experimental design . It guides researchers through each step, from the accurate
preparation of basic reagents to the assembly of complex biological
systems ensuring the coherence and rigor of the experimental process.
The handbook details the preparation methods for various reagents and
culture media used by the CJUH-JLU-China throughout the project, along
with specific operational steps and precautions.
The standardized procedures outlined in the handbook not only ensure
the stability of experimental results but also serve as a reliable
reference for long-term laboratory work .
More than just a comprehensive and practical manual, this Protocol
Handbook incorporates sustainable development principles, making it a
valuable resource capable of serving scientific research over a long
period.
It will continue to support future iGEM teams and researchers in
synthetic biology, driving progress and fostering growth .
Ethics of Synthetic Biology
In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, synthetic biology
has emerged as a dynamic interdisciplinary field with significant
potential in medicine, food engineering, energy, and environmental
sectors. However, as the technology evolves and its applications expand,
ethical concerns surrounding synthetic biology have become increasingly
prominent, posing challenges to its wholesome development.
To proactively tackle these challenges and ensure that synthetic biology
advances within an ethical framework,
CJUH-JLU-China, together with ten iGEM teams from diverse disciplines,
has embarked on the creation of the Ethics in Synthetic Biology
Handbook . This initiative not only underscores our deep commitment to the
ethical considerations in synthetic biology but also showcases the power
of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex ethical
dilemmas.
The handbook provides an in-depth analysis of ethical issues in
synthetic biology, particularly within the medical field . It addresses concerns surrounding privacy, informed consent, and
equity in the application of technologies like mRNA vaccines and gene
editing, offering targeted solutions and recommendations.
In food engineering, the handbook evaluates the role of synthetic
biology in areas such as food additives and genetically engineered
foods. It critically assesses the impact on food safety, consumer
health, and the environment, putting forward corresponding ethical
supervision suggestions to support sustainable development in the food
industry. For environmental protection and resource management, the
handbook focuses on the potential and risks of technologies like
microbial mining and carbon sequestration. It highlights key issues
related to social equity, environmental impact, and ethical
responsibility, providing a scientific foundation for informed
policy-making. To ensure the handbook's authority and practicality, we
rooted our work in our academic inquiry into synthetic biology and
ethics and extensively reviewed the latest research, policies, and
regulations from around the world. This approach enabled us to develop
an ethical framework that is both grounded in solid theory and
well-suited to practical applications, ensuring that the handbook's
content is thorough and well-organized.
We hope that the publication of the Ethics in Synthetic Biology handbook
will contribute to the continuous efforts in the global synthetic
biology community.
By providing guidance on ethical standards and moral principles, the
handbook aims to support researchers in balancing innovation with
responsibility . We also seek to encourage a more informed understanding and
thoughtful discussion of synthetic biology across different sectors of
society, ultimately helping the field grow in a responsible and
sustainable way that benefits everyone.
Synthetic Biology: The "LEGO" of Biology
Through our exploration of educational resources, we discovered that
while some books on synthetic biology are available,
there is still a noticeable gap in materials that present this complex
subject in an accessible and reader-friendly way . Seeing this as an exciting opportunity to enhance science
popularization,
we embarked on creating Synthetic Biology: The "LEGO" of Biology .
This handbook is tailored for readers 18 and older with a basic grasp of
biology, offering an approachable introduction to the exciting world of
synthetic biology.
A Perfect Blend of Science and Simplicity: We have thoroughly
reviewed and studied the material to guarantee both precision and
up-to-date information. Using clear, straightforward language and
vivid examples, we translate complex scientific concepts into forms
that are easy for non-specialists to grasp, making the basics of
synthetic biology accessible to everyone.
A Systematic Knowledge Framework: The handbook is organized
logically, following an "Overview-Principles-Applications-Future
Prospects" structure. It begins with the origins and fundamental
concepts of synthetic biology, gradually exploring its principles,
core technologies, and practical applications. This systematic
approach helps readers build a complete knowledge system.
An Interdisciplinary Perspective: While centered on synthetic
biology, the handbook also incorporates insights from related fields
such as molecular biology, genetics, and bioengineering. This
interdisciplinary approach provides readers with a broader and deeper
understanding of the topics discussed.
Rich in Case Studies and Visuals: To enhance readability and
engagement, we have carefully selected a variety of representative
case studies in synthetic biology, such as gene editing for treating
genetic disorders and microbial production of renewable energy. These
are presented with clear diagrams and illustrations, showcasing the
immense potential of synthetic biology while sparking readers'
curiosity about scientific exploration.
With Synthetic Biology: The "LEGO" of Biology, we aim to show the
general public how technology can influence everyday life, sparking
curiosity and a passion for discovery.
We hope this inspires more people to engage with synthetic biology,
contributing to its growth and helping to shape a better future for
everyone .
Ten Practical Tips for Cancer Prevention
This handbook brings together research and expert insights from the
global cancer community, offering clear and actionable strategies for
cancer prevention.
Drawing on the latest findings from oncology, public health,
nutrition, and psychology, we've created a resource that combines the
most current science with practical advice, all designed to empower
readers to take control of their health and reduce their cancer risk .
We carried out a comprehensive analysis of the severity of the global
cancer burden. We start with an in-depth examination of the global
impact of cancer, utilizing the most recent data from the World Health
Organization and the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
This information highlights critical trends in cancer incidence and
mortality, offering a clear understanding of the challenges we face
and informing our strategies for prevention . Though cancer poses a significant threat, progress in medical science
offers hope. With the rapid advancements in medical science, increasing
research shows that by implementing scientifically proven prevention
methods and early detection strategies, we can significantly reduce
cancer incidence and mortality.
This belief forms the core principle of our handbook and is the key
message we aim to convey to our readers .
Continuing from this basis, the handbook develops a systematic,
comprehensive, and multi-layered framework for cancer prevention. It
emphasizes healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition,
quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a consistent sleep
routine. Additionally, it underscores the importance of mental
well-being, environmental protection, vaccination, and regular health
check-ups, as well as staying alert to physical changes for early cancer
detection. These practical recommendations aim to deepen readers'
understanding of cancer prevention, helping them make healthier, more
informed choices in their daily lives.
We recognize that cancer prevention is a complex and ongoing endeavor,
requiring the collective efforts and sustained focus of society as a
whole. With this handbook, our goal is to equip readers with the
knowledge they need to fully understand cancer prevention, while also
inspiring a meaningful commitment to healthier living.
Here,
we sincerely invite every reader to regard this handbook as an
intimate companion in their own health journey . Let's work together to integrate the concept of cancer prevention
into every aspect of our daily lives and safeguard the health of
ourselves and our families.
Close the loop
Feedback
We understand that education is a two-way dialogue, not merely a
one-sided delivery . Here, both listening and expression are equally crucial. To
facilitate this interaction, we've
implemented an educational feedback survey as a means of bridging this
dialogue . After each activity, we distribute these surveys in paper or
electronic form, encouraging learners to freely share their thoughts,
evaluations, and suggestions about the activities. Importantly, we
emphasize that all responses are confidential and used solely for
research purposes, ensuring privacy is respected and data remains
secure.
We are excited to share that this initiative has yielded rich feedback
— a total of 866 surveys . After analyzing the data, we have created the following statistical
charts to showcase everyone's genuine perspectives.
From the survey findings, we are thrilled to note that almost all
participants provided high ratings, appreciating our activities for
their clarity and interactive nature. However, we also identified areas
for enhancement, particularly in increasing the level of fun.
Participants strongly endorsed our efforts in the
innovation and edutainment section, and we aim to continue this
approach to further enrich our future activities. Each suggestion is
valuable feedback that guides our growth and improvement. Some students
suggested incorporating more science communication aimed at competitors
to elevate the complexity of synthetic biology, while others recommended
conducting follow-ups after events.
Here are some thoughts and feedback:
Over the past year in our educational journey, we have experienced a
full PDCA cycle, encountering many challenges and growth.
From planning our strategies to doing the work, then checking our
results, and based on what we've learned, we took actions to close the
loop . Each step has been like an exploration, helping us accumulate
experience through continuous reflection and advance forward.
Reflecting on the past year, we've made significant strides in our
educational activities. Whether through initiatives like "iGEMers' Day"
or the game "My Little Octopus," these innovative efforts have yielded
satisfying results, and the enthusiasm and feedback from participants
have been truly inspiring.
We believe that these achievements are worth acknowledging and also
beneficial to be expanded and standardized in the future, which is
also a way of closing the loop by building on past successes . Conversely, some activities that didn't quite meet our expectations
have taught us important lessons and highlighted areas for improvement
in our next cycle, helping us to better close the loop by addressing
weaknesses.
As we've progressed, we've identified some shortcomings. For
example, while online platforms have broadened our educational reach,
they've struggled with effectively measuring learning outcomes. To close
this gap, we plan to introduce a new online learning platform next year,
which will be equipped with a strong assessment system. This will
maximize the potential of the internet, ensuring that every participant
benefits from a meaningful learning experience, thus closing the loop in
terms of online education effectiveness.
Looking ahead, we will continue to build on and refine our existing
initiatives, striving to make each educational effort increasingly
effective. We hope that through our endeavors, the seeds of synthetic
biology will be planted in the hearts of every participant and
ultimately grow into towering trees of knowledge and inspiration .