Value
Within the intricate web of knowledge dissemination, iGEMers occupy a pivotal role as the critical intermediate hub between the World Health Organization (WHO) and the wider public. While the WHO tirelessly spearheads global health initiatives and research, it is the dedicated teams of iGEMers who serve as the dynamic bridge, connecting the upstream endeavors with downstream impact. As the torchbearers of cutting-edge synthetic biology research and innovation, iGEMers not only facilitate the transfer of knowledge to the public but also serve as a wellspring of innovation and problem-solving. As information flows downstream, we actively engage in the discovery of existing issues, applying our expertise to craft innovative solutions. Ultimately, this wealth of insights and recommendations converges at the United Nations, where it can be harnessed to create a self-sustaining cycle of education and progress, ensuring that the global community remains informed, resilient, and prepared to tackle the challenges of our time.
The following was the value of our Education part:
In the intricate web of knowledge dissemination, iGEMers play a pivotal role as the critical nexus between the World Health Organization (WHO) and the general public. While the WHO tirelessly spearheads global health initiatives and research, it is the dedicated teams of iGEMers who serve as the dynamic bridge, connecting upstream efforts with downstream impact. As torchbearers of cutting-edge synthetic biology research and innovation, iGEMers not only facilitate the transfer of knowledge to the public, but also serve as a source of innovation and problem-solving. As information flows downstream, we actively participate in the discovery of existing problems and use our expertise to create innovative solutions. Ultimately, this wealth of insights and recommendations converges at the United Nations, where it can be harnessed to create a self-sustaining cycle of education and progress, ensuring that the global community remains informed, resilient and prepared to meet the challenges of our time. The following was the value of our education part:
Introduction
The introduction of our work
Format | Project | Audience | Purpose and significance |
Handwork and painting | Workshop Theme: Little Gardeners Craft Workshop | Children | Purpose: To introduce the concept of complementary base pairing and convey the mysteries of biology to kindergarten children aged 5-6. Significance: It fostered curiosity about genes, DNA, and biology, providing young children with an enjoyable and educational introduction to the world of science while enhancing their hands-on ability. |
Little Scientists： Synthetic Biology Brainstorming and Painting | Primary school students | Purpose: To ignite scientific curiosity and understanding complex concepts in primary school children through creative expression and connection to Sustainable Development Goals. Significance: It fostered future scientific interest, promoted visual representation in scientific exploration, and demonstrated the potential of science to benefit humanity. | |
Film and drama | Puppet Show: Wings of Gene Synthesis | Children | Purpose: To impart important values and reflections to kindergarten children through an educational puppet show titled "Wings of Gene Synthesis." Significance: It entertained children while subtly conveying messages about self-esteem, self-confidence, scientific ethics, and the acceptance of diversity, aiming to leave a profound impression on the young audience and inspire thoughtful contemplation of broader life values. |
BBC Horizon Series: Playing God - The Frontiers of Synthetic Biology | College Students | Purpose: To educate university students about synthetic biology's cutting-edge knowledge and stimulate their interest in the field through the BBC Horizon series documentary. Significance: It encouraged students to engage in synthetic biology research and applications, fostering future advancements and innovations in the field. | |
Sports | DNA Puzzle Dash | Middle school students | Purpose: To inspire middle school students' interest in science, environmental awareness, and smart carbon reduction by combining sports with biology. Significance: It fostered a passion for science, environmental consciousness, and innovation, while encouraging students to actively engage in environmental conservation. |
Exhibition | UESTC-China's Decade of Achievement in iGEM and Synthetic Biology | People of all ages in the community | Purpose: To highlight UESTC-China's iGEM achievements and introduce synthetic biology to the community. Significance: It ignited community interest in science and research, encouraged participation in iGEM for innovation and scientific advancement. |
SDG Exhibition & Peripherals | Purpose: To raise awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and introduce the field of synthetic biology to the local community. Significance: It bridged the gap between scientific advancements and the public, inspiring curiosity and scientific inquiry among participants while promoting the importance of SDGs. | ||
Circulation | Learn from WHO and Make Suggestions | Health workers | Purpose: To advance air pollution and health education. Significance: It provided invaluable insights into addressing air pollution and health issues, inspiring us to share this knowledge with health workers and the public through education and awareness initiatives. |
Handwork and Painting
Workshop Theme: Little Gardeners Craft Workshop
Purpose
In order to convey the mysteries of biology to children aged 5-6 in kindergarten and introduce the concept of complementary base pairing.
Process
Little Gardeners Craft Workshop
In this craft workshop, we guided children in making paper vine flowers. By cutting, curling, and gluing paper, they personally crafted red, pink, yellow, and blue paper flowers. Each color of paper flowers was made in pairs, creating delightful matching sets. This not only excited the children as they handcrafted beautiful art pieces but also nurtured their concentration and hands-on skills.
Inspiring Education through DNA Base Pairing
In conjunction with the craft activity, we introduced the concept of DNA base pairing to the children. We used the matching sets of paper flowers as a metaphor to correspond adenine (A) with thymine (T) and guanine (G) with cytosine (C). By linking abstract molecular structures with hands-on activities, we made it easy for the children to grasp the fundamental composition of DNA and the principles of base pairing.
Fostering Interest and Introduction to Biology
This craft workshop was more than just a crafting activity; it was also an opportunity for children to get their first taste of biology. Through engaging activities, they developed curiosity about genes, DNA, and biology. This fun and educational approach opened the door to the world of science for young children, sparking their interest in biology.
Significance: This activity not only enhanced the children's hands-on skills but also planted the seeds of basic biology in their minds. Through fun and engaging activities, they developed curiosity about genes, DNA, and biology. This approach of combining education with entertainment opened the door to the world of science for young children and sparked their interest in biology. This craft workshop was more than just a crafting activity; it was an opportunity for children to take their first steps into the world of biology. Such enlightening activities not only nurtured their creativity and curiosity but also laid a solid foundation for their future learning and exploration. Through the combination of hands-on crafting and knowledge sharing, we created an experience that was both fun and educational for the kindergarten children.
Little Scientists: Synthetic Biology Brainstorming and Painting
Purpose
To ignite the scientific curiosity of primary school children, we initiated the "Little Scientists: Synthetic Biology Brainstorming and Painting" activity.
Process
During this engaging program, we introduced children to the concept of biosynthesis in an accessible way. We encouraged them to brainstorm and creatively express their ideas by drawing on cards, emphasizing the power of visual representation in scientific exploration. We simplified the complex idea of "genetic engineering" by likening it to assembling building blocks, helping children understand the structure of genes and their potential for modification. We also shared inspiring stories of synthetic biology changing the world, such as creating customized artificial milk and enhancing crop yields. Furthermore, we guided the children to connect their newfound knowledge with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), encouraging them to envision innovative solutions.
See our PPT:
Significance
Through "Little Scientists: Synthetic Biology Brainstorming," we unlocked the world of science for primary school students, nurturing their scientific curiosity, creative thinking, and understanding of synthetic biology. By integrating drawing as a form of expression, we underscored the importance of visual representation in scientific exploration, making the learning experience both enjoyable and impactful. This activity not only revealed the allure of science to children but also paved the way for their future scientific endeavors while fostering a deeper connection to the SDGs and the potential of science to benefit humanity.
Here are some of the kids’ whimsical ideas and paintings:
Film and Drama
Puppet Show: Wings of Gene Synthesis
Purpose: We were delighted to have performed a puppet show "Wings of Gene Synthesis" for the children at kindergarten. This play was rich in educational significance and aimed to impart important values and reflections to the young audience.
See our script:
Title: "Wings of Transformation Through Genetic Synthesis"
Characters:
Little Duck (Protagonist)
Duck Siblings
Genetic Scientist Little Rabbit
Psychological Counselor Little Chicken
Act 1
Scene: A city park in a futuristic technological society
By the side of a park lake in the city, a peculiar little duck hatches, looking different from traditional ducks.
Sister Duck: Quack! Hello, world! I'm Beauty Duck.
Ugly Duckling: Quack! I'm Beauty Duck too!
Sister Duck: Quack, quack, quack. Just you? Look in the mirror; you're so ugly!
Ugly Duckling: You're lying. I'm just a newly hatched duckling. How can I be ugly?
Sister Duck: Look at you, small eyes, thick lips, and a big face. Where aren't you ugly?
Ugly Duckling: Waa, waa, waa, you're lying, waa, waa, waa.
(Ugly Duckling runs away, and Sister Duck exits)
Narrator: The Ugly Duckling, heartbroken, runs away and reaches the riverside, where it sees its own reflection in the water and cries even harder.
Ugly Duckling: Waa, waa, waa, Sister was right. My eyes are so small, my lips are so thick, I'm truly an ugly duckling! Such an ugly little duck, who would ever love me?
Narrator: The Ugly Duckling is deeply saddened. It keeps walking until it reaches a metal building. The door opens, and a little rabbit hops out.
Little Rabbit: Little duck, why are you crying?
Ugly Duckling: Waa, waa, waa, because I'm an ugly duckling.
Little Rabbit: Don't cry, little duck. I'm a genetic synthesis scientist, and perhaps I can help you.
Ugly Duckling: Genetics? What's that? And what is genetic synthesis?
Scientist: Genes are the carriers of genetic information within living organisms. The arrangement of genes in your parents' bodies determines how you look. For example, you have small eyes instead of big ones, yellow feathers instead of white, and so on. Children resemble their parents because they inherit some of the same genetic sequences.
Genetic synthesis is a technology that allows us to alter an organism's genes, meaning we can change your appearance. We could turn your yellow feathers into pure white, make your small eyes as big as grapes, and transform you from an ugly duckling into a beautiful swan.
Ugly Duckling: So, genetic engineering can make me beautiful, smarter, and even faster?
Little Rabbit: Genetic engineering can indeed achieve all of those things.
Ugly Duckling: That's fantastic! Please help me become beautiful!
Act 2
Scene: Genetic Synthesis Laboratory
The scientist conducts a series of experiments, gradually changing the duck's appearance into that of a beautiful swan.
Swan: Oh my goodness! Thank you, scientist! I'm as beautiful and elegant as a princess now.
Little Rabbit: You're welcome, beautiful lady. It's my honor to help you. Stop crying and go back home happily.
The little duck walks out of the laboratory, contentedly returning to the lakeside where it hatched.
Swan: Sister, I'm back.
Sister Duck: Quack! Who's this beautiful swan? You're mistaken, my dear. You're a swan, I'm a duck. How could I be your sister?
Swan: I'm your little sister, the Ugly Duckling!
Sister Duck: Don't tease me. The Ugly Duckling was so ugly; you're so beautiful. How can you be a duck?
The Swan tells her sister the story of her transformation.
Duck Sister: I find it hard to believe you're the Ugly Duckling; genes are the most important biological units. Your genes have all changed, your appearance has changed. You're no longer the Ugly Duckling; go find swans to be your sisters.
(Duck Sister exits, leaving the Swan perplexed and shaken by the questions her sister raised.)
Swan: Am I really not who I used to be?
Act 3
(The Swan sits by the riverside, all alone. A little chicken approaches.)
Little Chicken: You're so beautiful.
Swan: I don't deserve your praise. I used to be an ugly duckling, but now I don't even know who I am.
Little Chicken: Did you undergo genetic engineering?
Swan: How do you know?
Little Chicken: I'm a city psychological counselor. Many animals have confided in me, and those who underwent genetic alteration all had similar troubles—wondering if they were still themselves.
Swan: Because I was so ugly, my family didn't accept me. But now that I'm beautiful, they say I don't belong to the family anymore.
Little Chicken: You're being silly, little duck. Whether you're a duck or a swan, you're unique. Why should you be so troubled trying to fit in with others?
Swan: Waa, waa, waa, you're right. I regret it. I should have bravely embraced who I am.
Little Chicken: The world is diverse, just like colors—there's yellow, red, blue, white... There's no color that's the most beautiful, and there's no color that's the ugliest. If there was only one color in the world, it would be so dull. Every duck has its unique genes, and every trait is a gift from above; you shouldn't try to change it.
Swan: I've been so foolish; I've destroyed the gift I was given. Waa, waa, waa.
Little Chicken: Don't worry, little duck. Go see the rabbit scientist again; maybe there's a way to revert.
Act 4
Narrator: The little duck returns to the laboratory of the rabbit scientist and knocks on the door, knock, knock, knock.
Little Rabbit: Little swan, why have you come back?
Swan: I regret it. I shouldn't have given up my uniqueness. Can you help me return to my original self?
Little Rabbit: Are you sure about this? This time, going back means no more changes.
Swan: I've thought it through. Altering my appearance won't solve the problem. Each of us should be accepted and respected, no matter how we look. I've decided to return to my true self and embrace my real appearance.
Little Rabbit: Alright, come with me.
The Ugly Duckling turns back into its original self, making new friends and enjoying the beauty of the park alongside other ducks. The story highlights that differences in appearance should not lead to discrimination or rejection and raises ethical questions about genetic engineering, which are still being explored.
Process
The puppet show was divided into four acts, each guiding the children to contemplate different themes through characters and plotlines.
Act 1: Set in a futuristic city park, we told the story of a young duck's growth, prompting the children to consider the relationship between appearance and inner qualities. Through character interactions, we depicted the challenges that differences in appearance can bring and emphasized the importance of self-esteem and self-confidence.
Act 2: Through the explanation by a rabbit scientist, we introduced the concepts of genes and gene synthesis to the children. This scene was designed to inspire their interest in science and encourage them to ponder the relationship between technology and ethics.
Act 3: The appearance of a chicken psychological counselor added depth to the story. Her words taught the young duck to bravely be themselves and not conform to others' expectations. This was a valuable lesson that helped children understand that everyone has their own unique value.
Act 4: The duck ultimately decided to embrace its true appearance, reinforcing the message we hoped to convey to the children: that everyone should be accepted and respected, regardless of their appearance.
Significance
This puppet show not only provided entertainment for the children but also subtly conveyed important messages about self-esteem, self-confidence, scientific ethics, and the acceptance of diversity. We hoped that this activity could leave a profound impression on the children and inspired them to contemplate broader values in life. Through the medium of puppetry, we have successfully achieved our goal of conveying important values and encouraging thoughtful reflection to the young audience.
BBC Horizon Series: Playing God - The Frontiers of Synthetic Biology
Purpose
Our goal is to disseminate cutting-edge knowledge in synthetic biology to university students through the BBC Horizon series documentary titled "Playing God: The Frontiers of Synthetic Biology." We aim to stimulate their interest in science and ignite their curiosity about the field of synthetic biology.
Process
By watching this high-quality science documentary, university students could have the opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the complex concepts and applications of synthetic biology through visual and auditory means. The BBC Horizon series has been renowned for its outstanding science communication, and this documentary vividly presented the frontiers and developments of synthetic biology, offering the audience an immersive science education experience.
Significance
Through this activity, we broadened the impact of synthetic biology while encouraging university students to actively engage in related academic research and practical applications. Synthetic biology is a field filled with innovation and growth potential, and we hope to inspire more young scholars to be drawn to this domain, contributing their talents to future scientific advancements and innovations. This activity provided university students with an opportunity to delve deep into the world of synthetic biology, opening up new possibilities for their future academic and career development.
Sports
DNA Puzzle Dash
Purpose
Our goal was to create a captivating and comprehensive experience for middle school students by combining "Rongcheng Smart Carbon" with the DNA Puzzle Dash. This activity aimed to ignite their passion for science and environmental awareness while fostering their interest in science, environmental conservation, and smart carbon reduction.
Process
DNA Puzzle Dash Speed Challenge
The core of the event was the DNA Puzzle Dash Speed Challenge, with a focus on integrating science and environmental conservation. Students participated in a gene assembly competition, delving into the mysteries of biology and synthetic biology. The activity began with the fundamental concepts of gene assembly and the importance of plasmids, providing students with a solid knowledge foundation. Subsequently, the race and assembly challenge commenced, with middle school students demonstrating outstanding performance in both speed and assembly accuracy. To recognize their teamwork and gene assembly skills, the winning teams received our peripherals as prizes.
Rongcheng Smart Carbon Interactive Workshop
We introduced elements from "Rongcheng Smart Carbon" and organize interactive workshops on intelligent carbon reduction. Students understood the significance of carbon reduction, learn how to implement environmentally friendly measures in their daily lives, and explore the role of synthetic biology in environmental conservation.
Significance
The significance of this comprehensive activity lied in igniting middle school students' enthusiasm for science, nurturing their environmental awareness, and inspiring their interest. By seamlessly integrating DNA Puzzle Dash with Rongcheng Smart Carbon, we provided students with a multi-dimensional learning experience that helped them better understand and care for our environment and the future. We firmly believed that this activity could ignite students' enthusiasm for science and environmental conservation, foster their innovative thinking, and encourage them to actively engage in environmental conservation efforts.
Exhibition
UESTC-China's Decade of Achievement in iGEM and Synthetic Biology
Purpose
This event provided us with a rare opportunity to not only showcase UESTC-China's ten years of accomplishments and experience in the iGEM competition but also introduce synthetic biology to a broader audience of community members. Through this event, we highlighted UESTC-China's remarkable projects in synthetic biology and its continuous progress over the past decade. This not only ignited interest among community members in synthetic biology but also offered them a chance to understand scientific research and practice.
Process
We presented UESTC-China's achievements in synthetic biology and provided insights into the field through engaging projects and continuous advancements. This event served as a platform to stimulate the interest of community members in synthetic biology, offering them an opportunity to explore the world of science and research. Additionally, we actively promoted the iGEM competition, encouraging more community members, especially young individuals, to participate. The iGEM competition serves as an excellent platform for fostering innovative thinking and teamwork, and we hope to see more young individuals excitedly engage in this competition, contributing their skills to future scientific research and innovation.
Significance
This event not only enriched the knowledge of community members but also ignited their passion for scientific research and exploration. It played a vital role in nurturing future scientific innovators and contributing to the advancement of the field of synthetic biology. Our outreach efforts expanded the horizons of community members, fostering an environment where scientific curiosity and innovation thrive.
At the same time, we also compiled a booklet to showcase the achievements of our team in the past ten years.
See our booklet:
UESTC-China's Ten Years of Dedication to iGEM: A Decade of SynBio Excellence
For a decade, UESTC-China has been an unwavering participant in the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, upholding the very philosophy that iGEM has cherished throughout its illustrious history. Our journey has been one of relentless dedication, innovation, and an unyielding desire to push the boundaries of synthetic biology.
At the heart of our commitment lies the belief that synthetic biology holds the key to addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges. We've strived to embody the core values of iGEM - collaboration, innovation, and responsible science - in every project we've undertaken. Our journey has seen us tackle issues ranging from environmental sustainability to healthcare, all while upholding the highest standards of scientific ethics.
Our ten-year journey in iGEM is a testament to the transformative power of synthetic biology. It's a saga of countless hours in the lab, brainstorming sessions, and the thrill of discovery. It's about forging enduring partnerships with fellow teams and mentors from around the globe. It's a story of resilience in the face of challenges and an unwavering belief in the potential of synthetic biology to change the world.
As we reflect on this remarkable journey, we look forward to the future with even greater determination. Our mission remains unchanged - to make our own unique contribution to the field of synthetic biology. We aspire to pioneer groundbreaking solutions, inspire the next generation of scientists, and continue our pursuit of excellence.
In the spirit of iGEM, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles of open science, collaboration, and responsible innovation. We stand ready to embrace the challenges of the next decade with the same fervor that has fueled our journey thus far.
UESTC-China's ten years in iGEM represent not just a milestone in our team's history but a celebration of the enduring spirit of exploration and innovation in synthetic biology. As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of this remarkable field.
Together, we'll continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in synthetic biology and work towards a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
Promoting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Synthetic Biology Through Community Exhibition
Purpose
Our recent community exhibition served the dual purpose of promoting awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and showcasing the fascinating world of synthetic biology. By displaying our team's peripherals at the exhibition, we aimed to engage and educate the local community on these crucial topics.
Process
SDGs Awareness Display
One of the primary highlights of the exhibition was a comprehensive display dedicated to the SDGs. We presented each of the 17 SDGs with informative visuals and engaging descriptions, making them easily accessible to visitors of all ages. This segment aimed to raise awareness about global challenges, such as poverty alleviation, climate action, and biodiversity preservation and encouraged the community to reflect on their role in achieving these goals.
Interactive Workshops on Synthetic Biology
In addition to the SDGs display, we organized interactive workshops focused on synthetic biology. These hands-on sessions provided community members, from various age groups, the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of synthetic biology. Through engaging activities, participants gained insights into DNA manipulation, gene editing, and the potential applications of synthetic biology in addressing real-world challenges.
Team Peripherals Exhibition
As part of the exhibition, we showcased our team's peripherals related to our experimental subjects. These displays included informative posters, innovative prototypes, and tangible examples of our research outcomes. Visitors had the chance to learn about the groundbreaking work of our team in the field of synthetic biology and its relevance to solving global issues.
Significance
The community exhibition played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between scientific advancements and the general public. By raising awareness about the SDGs, we empowered community members to recognize their role in achieving a sustainable future. Simultaneously, the introduction of synthetic biology through interactive workshops allowed participants to appreciate the potential of cutting-edge science in addressing global challenges.
The display of our team's peripherals not only showcased our achievements but also served as an inspiration for aspiring scientists within the community. It encouraged curiosity, scientific inquiry, and the pursuit of innovative solutions to local and global issues.
Circulation
Learn from WHO and Make Suggestions
Purpose
Our participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) Department of Air Quality, Energy, and Health's seminar on September 5, 2023, titled "New Opportunities: Launch of the OpenWHO Online Course for Health Workers on Air Pollution and Health," was driven by the purpose of advancing air pollution and health education.
Process
The seminar's theme ignited a profound exploration of the intersection of air pollution and health education. During the event, the launch of the OpenWHO online course and insights from experts broadened our understanding of how to enhance the awareness of health professionals regarding air pollution issues. We also learned strategies to equip them for more effective public health protection. The seminar served as a platform for us to grasp vital techniques and methodologies.
Furthermore, the panel discussions and the sharing of case studies during the seminar left a lasting impression on us. Representatives from diverse countries and organizations openly discussed their respective challenges and achievements in educating health workers about air pollution. This collaborative cross-sector engagement and knowledge exchange promised to facilitate the widespread dissemination of best practices and elevate the quality of global health worker training.
Significance
In conclusion, this seminar was a source of invaluable insights and inspiration, emphasizing the critical importance of confronting the global challenge of air pollution. Armed with this newfound knowledge, we were committed to actively disseminating it among health workers. We aimed to foster a collaborative effort to create a cleaner environment and promote healthier living conditions. Furthermore, we incorporated this knowledge into our educational initiatives, allowing us to pass it on to the wider public through science education activities. Our participation in this seminar paved the way for a more informed and engaged approach to addressing the complex issue of air pollution and its impact on public health.
