Teaching Guide
Stem Cell Research - A Jewish Viewpoint
produced by 
Heschel Weiner
Web Institute for Teachers, Summer, 2003

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Introduction 

Aim

Rationale

Goals and Objectives

Audience

Prerequisites


Subject-Matter

Instructional Plan

Materials

Assessment and Evaluation

Appendices

Resources

Glossary



Introduction
 
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Aim

The purpose of this webquest is to introduce the student to the issues concerning stem cell research with emphasis on opinions of Jewish law and community.
 
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Rationale

Jews who are knowledgeable of the issues related to stem cell research, especially in terms of those areas of specific interest to Judaism and the Jewish community, will make informed decisions vis a vis support and practice of stem cell research. Stem cell research is an area of great promise in medical diagnostics and treatment. Jews have historically been in the forefront of medical research, discovery and innovation. Stem cell research is no exception. Jews dedicated to promoting society's welfare are also concerned with loyalty to venerated law. It is hoped that a consequence of engaging in this webquest will help the student delineate and clarify those crucial issues relative to stem cell research from the standpoints of both contribution to society in general and allegiance to Jewish practice and belief.
 
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Goals and Objectives

After completing the webquest, the student will be able to:

1.Define stem cells and how explain the procedure in which stem cells are produced, harvested and maintained.

2.Explain why stem cells are useful and why scientists and society are interested in devoting a great deal of resources to stem cell research. The student should be able to provide specific examples of possible practical application of stem cell research.

3. Know crucial issues of caution regarding stem cell research from a societal standpoint.

4. Be familiar with Jewish Law (Halachik) issues that affect stem cell research.

5. Be acquainted with authoritative decisions made by the Rabbinate and other authoritative bodies of Jewish communities as they relate to stem cell research.

6. The student should submit an opinion of position regarding the Jewish response and support of stem cell research. The position may be global or may multi- faceted.


 
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Audience

Users of this webquest are high school upper classman and college age students to adults.
 
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Prerequisites

For optimum benefit, the user should have, at the very least, a ninth grade level knowledge of biology and microbiology.
 
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Subject-Matter

Stem Cell research (production, harvesting, storing, manipulation of and disposal of stem cells)

Biblical sources in a variety of areas concerning human life and sabbath preservation.

Rabbinical and other professional responsa regarding Jewish law and issues as they relate to Stem cell research.

Societal and personal requirements regarding confidentiality and information accumulation and dissemination.
 
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Instructional Plan
 
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Materials
 
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Assessment and Evaluation
 
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Appendices (optional, if needed)

Resources
 
Glossary