Skill 3.3. Science, Technology, and Society

With advances in biotechnology come those in society who oppose it. Ethical questions come into play when discussing animal and human research. Does it need to be done What are the effects on humans and animals There are no right or wrong answers to these questions. There are governmental agencies in place to regulate the use of humans and animals for research. 

It is normal to reevaluate one s beliefs. Reevaluation requires truly thinking about a topic, which in turn allows for recommitment to a topic or, possibly, a new, well thought out, position. 

Accidents and injuries should always be reported to the school administration and local health facilities. The severity of the accident or injury will determine the course of action to pursue. 

All laboratory solutions should be prepared as directed in the lab manual. Care should be taken to avoid contamination. All glassware should be rinsed thoroughly with distilled water before using and cleaned well after use. All solutions should be made with distilled water as tap water contains dissolved particles that may affect the results of an experiment. Unused solutions should be disposed of according to local disposal procedures. 

The Right to Know Law covers science teachers who work with potentially hazardous chemicals. Briefly, the law states that employees must be informed of potentially toxic chemicals. An inventory must be made available if requested. 

---