What’s our target group and why did we choose them?

We've noticed that the majority of current science education is primarily geared towards students. However, science education should be lifelong and accessible to the general public. Therefore, it's essential not to neglect the need for science education among individuals employed in fields unrelated to synthetic biology. Their exposure to synthetic biology is often limited, and their capacity to discern external information varies due to differences in educational backgrounds. Consequently, they may hold varying degrees of bias towards synthetic biology. To address these biases, our target audience comprises non-professionals in the realm of synthetic biology, and our goal is to provide them with science education relevant to their respective domains.

Insightful conversation to understand the need and value.

Due to the wide range of fields involved in different professions, we need to selectively disseminate various knowledge based on the occupations. Therefore, we chose to conduct street interviews to directly understand the level of understanding of synthetic biology among people in different professions, as well as how synthetic biology is associated with their respective fields. We interviewed a total of 16 different occupational groups. Through face-to-face conversations with them, we found that the vast majority of people knew nothing about synthetic biology, let alone its close connection to everyday life. However, they were very interested in synthetic biology knowledge related to everyday life, such as "genetically modified foods”. Therefore, we decided to use genetically modified foods as an entry point to popularize knowledge of synthetic biology to the public.

Solution incorporation

Step 1: We conducted research on genetically modified content relevant to different professions, collected pertinent information, and ensured the scientific accuracy of the data.

Step 2: We conducted street interviews and educational outreach in Beijing's Haidian District. Using the scientific evidence we gathered, we reassured the interviewees that there is no need to be overly alarmed about genetically modified foods. Additionally, tailored to each profession, we used topics and evidence relevant to their occupations to educate them on how genetically modified organisms have brought significant convenience to our lives. Finally, we provided them with a wealth of learning resources, including podcasts, educational videos, comics, and more, which we created.

Step 3: We compiled and analyzed the feedback we gathered.

Result and feedback

In our survey, we found that there is a significant misunderstanding and bias among the public regarding genetically modified foods. Among the interviewees, 86% held a negative attitude towards genetically modified organisms.

Through our educational efforts, 45% of individuals expressed a willingness to further explore knowledge related to genetically modified organisms, while 55% indicated that they would approach genetic modification technology more objectively in the future.