Students will begin by exploring the field of biomedical engineering,
investigating the various branches to determine what interests them the
most and learning directly from a professional who works in the field.
To gain a foundation in medical science, students will gain exposure to
osteology, anatomy, and cellular biology by exploring various media and
building their own models. Then, students will explore DNA and genetics,
genetic engineering and the current debate over GMOs (or genetically
modified organisms), and the science of stem cells and their many
applications in medicine and science. Students will also explore
technology used in the field, by visiting a medical laboratory or
medical imaging center, conducting their own research on specific
devices and equipment, and developing skills in computation and
programming.
Students will focus on specific aspects of the field by learning about
the relationship between bionics (the study of natural processes and
movements for the purpose of engineering and medical applications) and
the development of prosthetics for treatment of missing limbs and
organs. Finally, students will complete and share their final
presentations on the books they read throughout the semester, relating
what they have learned about biomedical engineering to personal
interests and real-world applications.