How Sure Are You? Science Biostatistics and Cancer Education
Project Website(s)
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Project Description
The How Sure Are You: Science Biostatistics and Cancer Education (SBCE) project is developing three web-based teaching modules for high school teachers and students using data-rich cancer education resources. The modules address national science mathematics and health education standards using strategies supported by research on teaching statistical reasoning to diverse learners. The modules support students becoming knowledgeable about clinical trials population disparities in cancer research and cancer prevention making evidence-based arguments and health decisions and developing an awareness of under representation in clinical trials and STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Technology) careers. As a result students gain: Basic understanding of cancer population studies and clinical trials; Ability to develop and present a valid scientific argument; Ability to select and use appropriate statistical methods and tools to analyze data; Understanding of risk factors and impact on wellness; and Interest in science and STEM careers. The module topics include characteristics of distributions and community knowledge about cancer randomization and clinical trials causation versus correlation with emphasis on cancer risks and designing and analyzing basic research studies.
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Abstract
How Sure Are You? Science Biostatistics and Cancer Education for Grades 9-12 is a curriculum development and dissemination project to create web-based teaching modules that will make it possible for high school teachers or other educators to readily access and make use of cancer education resources they otherwise might not consider well matched to their curriculum. The modules address national science mathematics and health education standards using learning experiences and instructional strategies supported by research on effectively teaching diverse learners. Designed to address issues of under representation in clinical trials and STEM careers specific aims for student learning are: Basic understanding of cancer population studies and clinical trials Ability to design and present a valid scientific study Ability to select and use appropriate statistical methods to analyze data Understanding of risk factors and impact on wellness Interest in science and STEM careers The three-year development phase is an ongoing iterative process of designing piloting evaluating and revising modules. Each module has six components: Three to five hands-on lessons with challenging problems and data sets An inquiry-based project Suggestions for extension activities A performance-based assessment A profile of an NIH-supported cancer scientist or biostatistician from a STEM underrepresented group who is doing work related to the topic Links to other relevant resources Modules also serve as a professional development tool for teachers by providing the background and support necessary for effective teaching. During the two-year dissemination phase to start in Fall 2012 modules will undergo a national field test revision and will be published via the SEPA website and promoted through national organizations of health education science and mathematics teachers (e.g. NSTA NCTM AAHE). The module topics selected from key mathematics science inquiry and health education standards are: Characteristics of Distributions and Community Knowledge about Clinical Trials Randomization and Clinical Trials Causation vs. Correlation in Cancer Risks and Screenings Designing and Analyzing Studies Understanding of risk factors and impact on personal wellness
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Additional Information
PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE (provided by applicant): “Are You Sure?” curriculum modules will help students become citizens who are knowledgeable about clinical trials population disparities in cancer research and cancer prevention and able to make informed evidence-based health decisions.
