Gene Editing: Exploring Ethical Challenges

Instructions

Gene Editing: Exploring Ethical Challenges

Instructions for:TraineeTrainer

Goal

This module introduces the ethical challenges in gene editing. Using real life cases, it aims to encourage reflection on ethical issues related to this technology.

Requirements

For trainers: Before using this module trainers should complete the two ENERI e-learning modules on Gene Editing: Gene Editing: Ethics Issues and Gene Editing: Technology Basics

For trainees: No prior expertise in gene editing is required, but participants should have a basic understanding of research ethics concepts. Participants are encouraged to complete the ENERI e-learning module on Research Ethics And Integrity Basics  

Duration (hours)

1

For whom is this important?

RECs

Part of

irecs

Steps

1Welcome (10-15 minutes) & introduction of the session program and objectives

2Ice breaker (10 minutes)

3Warm up: Case presentation (15 minutes)

4Interactive lecture (45 minutes)

5Case discussion in subgroups (45 minutes)

6Group presentations and plenary discussion (30-40 minutes)

7Concluding session (10-20 minutes)

Practical Tips

• Familiarize yourself with the irecs materials on gene editing and identify where are the videos and cases you will use for this session

• Test all digital tools (Mentimeter, digital whiteboards) in advance.  

• Be aware of the diverse cultural and regulatory backgrounds of the trainees in your group.

• Share additional resources and the rest of e-modules at the end of the session.

• Collect feedback through the evaluation form to improve future sessions.

1

Welcome (10-15 minutes) & introduction of the session program and objectives

Introduce yourself and share the plan for the session presented below:

• Ice-breaker
• Short introductory lecture  
• Case discussion in smaller groups
• Plenary discussion

Introduce the Learning Objectives - after the session participants are able to:

1. Weigh the potential harms and benefits of different areas of gene editing. 
2. Reflect upon some of the ethics issues (like dual use/misuse or long-term ethical and societal implications) associated with gene editing.
3. Recognize ethical and safety concerns associated with gene editing techniques and their applications.

Use a warm up question to introduce the topic: Use this as an interactive exercise before starting with the session. Ask participants one of these questions, encouraging participants to share their answers with the group:

• What’s one word that comes to mind when you think of gene editing?
• What's one aspect of gene editing that makes you feel excited or uneasy?

Briefly introduce the topic:

Gene editing is a transformative and evolving technology that has a big potential for addressing problems in healthcare, agriculture, among others. However, it also raises critical ethical questions since it can have severe societal and environmental long-term consequences. Since the CRISPR-Cas9 became a reality, many debates about human enhancement and justice issues regarding access to the technology have surrounded gene editing.

This training session is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complex ethical issues that arise from gene editing. By exploring and discussing real cases, participants will develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and responsibilities associated to gene editing.

Trainer Tip: Use this moment to create a welcoming and open environment, emphasizing that the session wants to encourage ethical reflection in an open and safe space.  

Other information