Diagnosis and Discovery: Classroom research that empowers students to uncover diet-based solutions to improve health

eCLOSE Institute provides biomedical research training to students in grades 6-12, preparing them for success in science while increasing health literacy and health advocacy. All eCLOSE programs align with STEELS standards in Biology, Environmental Science, Chemistry, and AP Biology, providing no-cost opportunities to highlight curriculum topics with original research. For 26-27, eCLOSE is offering Diagnosis and Discovery, a Classroom research program in which students first serve as healthcare professionals, diagnosing human patients using case studies and proposing diet or behavioral methods to improve health based on their work. Next, students use fruit fly models of disease to conduct original research, with the goal of testing their ideas and uncovering new, low-cost methods for improving health within Philly communities.

In this professional development workshop, teachers will receive a stipend and certificate of participation as well as access to no-cost programming and supplies for students in Philadelphia public schools. Options for in-person or virtual participation are offered. All participants will receive Lab-in-a-Box research kits containing the equipment and supplies needed for the research program, as well as access to the eCLOSE Diagnosis and Discovery curriculum tailored for research on cancer, diabetes, or mental health. We look forward to working with you!