Evaluation of a decision case approach to food biotechnology education at the secondary level

This paper describes an evaluation of a decision case approach used with secondary students to address labeling of genetically engineered foods. The decision case study was implemented in science, horticulture, food science, and biology classes by eight teachers in a total of six public and private urban, suburban, and rural high schools. After the case experience, students were more positive about the use of biotechnology in food production and fewer advocated special labeling for genetically engineered products. Most students rated their level of involvement in the decision case as moderate or high and indicated that the case study was both a positive and a learning experience.