Bioterror is an extremely important and very interesting look into the past history and present threat of biological warfare when used as weapons of terror. It is a companion website to a 2001 television broadcast in which three NY Times reporters "delve into the murky past of bioweapons research and grapple with the current threat of anthrax and other attacks." This material takes the reader on a fascinating journey dealing with the History of Biowarfare, Future Germ Defenses, Interviews with Biowarriors, Global Guide to Bioweapons, and an interactive feature on Making Vaccines (Hot Science). There is also a link that provides Resources on Bioterror and a Teachers Guide.
Type of Material:
Tutorial (The site also offers a significant amount of reference material that can be used independent of the material as a tutorial)
Recommended Uses:
The material can be used in a classroom setting either on campus or online, as homework, individual or group discussions, lectures or other presentations, in a corporate setting, or any business whose management and/or employees need to familiarize themselves with the subject.
Technical Requirements:
Safari, I. E., QuickTime, RealVideo, Flash, non-Flash available.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
The student will learn what Bioterrorism is, will become familiarized with ongoing biodefense research, learn firsthand from experts about biological warfare through personal interviews, what countries produced and are still producing "deadly weapons-usable biological agents for potential deployment," and how to make vaccines in a virtual laboratory.
Target Student Population:
a) High school students
b) Lower level college students
c) Upper level college students
d) Subject specific instruction - science, homeland security
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Courses in biology, chemistry, and history would be helpful in understanding the material, but not necessarily mandatory. Basic computer skills are necessary, as is having the capability to download software (if needed) from the internet.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
This material is shown on NOVA, which is on the Public Broadcasting Station (PBS) website. NOVA is "the highest rated science series on television and the most watched documentary series on public television." As such, the material is presented in a very clear manner, and is easy to follow. It does provide an accurate and in-depth look at the subject matter. It is self-contained and is flexible enough that it can be used in a variety of situations. Even though the material is a decade old, it is still relevant and highly educational.
The information provided by the site is varied and does not support one particular view but provides information that offers a comprehensive view of the topic.
Concerns:
While the variety and depth of material is outstanding, the site does not use a standardized method in make the information available especially when the videos are concerned. It is recommended the videos be offered on the site in a standardized format.
The material is a decade old and there could be further advances in combatting bioterrorism.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
Bioterror does an excellent job in identifying its learning objectives by effectively covering such diverse subjects as: biological warfare, a biological arms race, biodefense research, offering up a guide to global bioweapons, how to make vaccines, and even allowing the learner to read interviews conducted between a U. S research scientist and two former Soviet research scientists, both whom defected to the United States. They discuss their respective countries weapons programs, terrorism, and even top-secret research. While there is a lot of material offered, it is not overwhelming by any means. Any time the learner is allowed to actively engage themselves into the material through interactive means, that participation alone can make the learning experience more memorable.
Concerns:
None.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The material is presented in such a way that is very easy to use, and is extremely engaging through the use of photos, personal interviews, interactive lessons, and video. The blue background makes it visually appealing to the learner. Having been shown on NOVA; a PBS program and internet website, the quality is second to none.
Material available on secondary pages include a deeper level of material including reference and resource material, videos, and much more.
Concerns:
The depth of material can cause an individual to spend a great deal of time searching for material. While not necessarily a negative, any delay in finding information by some will result in their abandoning of the site. A better or more detailed menu that includes a comprehensive listing of material may be helpful.
Other Issues and Comments:
None.
Creative Commons:
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