S.E.P. (Scientific Ethics Projects): The Conscience of Science Erasmus Project

Project Title

S.E.P. (Scientific Ethics Projects): The Conscience of Science

Project Key Action

This project related with these key action: Cooperation for innovation and the exchange of good practices

Project Action Type

This project related with this action type : School Exchange Partnerships

Project Call Year

This project’s Call Year is 2020

Project Topics

This project is related with these Project Topics: Natural sciences; Ethics, religion and philosophy (incl. Inter-religious dialogue); Research and innovation

Project Summary

Scientific progress is often in conflict with ethical demands or even human rights. Particularly issues concerning human health, reproduction and free will are challenged by new technologies developed in the fields of genetic engineering, organ replacement and artificial intelligence.In this project on “Medical Ethics” we will explore the current status of respective scientific breakthroughs, laws adopted by individual countries and the EU, as well as ethical questions raised by experts and common people. Thus, we have put together a diverse panel of five secondary schools spanning from north to south (Norway, Finland, Netherlands, Germany, Italy), each introducing a different topic into the discussion.Germany adopted an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy on the federal level in late 2018. As a result, up to three billion Euros will be funnelled into AI research in the following years. Similar strategies have been developed by other European countries, including Finland and Norway. However, it is yet to be determined which aspects of human life and society will be transformed by this technology – and how.A different picture can be drawn for genetic engineering. Here, most European countries are opposed to releasing genetically modified organisms (GMO) into the field – although GMO play an important role in industrial biotechnology (especially microbes) – or using the power of genetics for human health. New technologies like targeted gene editing (CRIPR-Cas9) challenge the traditional view of “GM” and are a hot topic in European and international law-making. Some researchers hope to create artificial organs using genetic tools but at the moment doctors still rely on organ transplantation. Yet again, the constant shortage of organs sparks many discussions among politicians and the public if people should be forced to donate their organs upon death or actively opt-in as an organ donor.All schools involved have up to date in-house facilities for experimental work and computing. In shortlab based seminars, students will gain first-hand experience in relevant experimental techniques. They will also visit several research facilities, medical institutions and tech companies to get a deeper understanding of current developments in AI, genetic engineering and organ transplants. All exchanges will be accompanied by preparative units using text and film material and constant communication via eTwinning.
By varying the methodology used, students from all countries will improve their skills in
1. scientific inquiry (asking the right questions),
2. appropriate documentation and presentation,
3. ethical evaluation and last but not least
4. communication in the project language English.

EU Grant (Eur)

Funding of the project from EU: 147812 Eur

Project Coordinator

Gymnasium Parsberg & Country: DE

Project Partners

• 2College Cobbenhagenlyceum
• Istituto Professionale Statale Giacomo Ceconi
• Kongsbakken videregående skole
• Kastellin lukio