In the realm of biology education, the Gurdon Institute is pioneering an innovative approach to captivate students in the intricate world of molecular biology and gene editing. SCoPE is a project that consists of toolkits co-created by teachers and Gurdon Institute scientists, showcasing the power of collaboration in enhancing classroom experiences. These toolkits aim to seamlessly integrate contemporary research into GCSE and A-level classrooms, fostering critical thinking and a deeper understanding of biology concepts.

Alongside the "Unlocking Genetic Editing" toolkit, there are three additional resources: the "Cell Explorer," "Explore Epigenetics," and "Fruit Larvae Dissection" toolkits. Notably, the "Cell Explorer" stands out as an online tool providing a virtual journey into the intricate details of a cell, offering students a visually engaging representation of its internal structures. As part of the Gurdon Institute's public engagement program, these resources were developed with generous funding from Wellcome; hence, the kits are available for teachers to use for free!

The "Unlocking Genetic Editing" toolkit is a team-based, hands-on puzzle-solving game tailored for A-level students. Conveniently self-contained in backpacks for each team of 3-4 students, this immersive classroom activity presents a fictional scenario where participants tackle logical puzzles related to gene editing, reinforcing concepts like transcription, translation, and the structure of DNA and RNA. The puzzles also provide an intriguing introduction to gene editing, specifically the CRISPR-Cas9 technique. The toolkit, available for free to UK-based teachers, aligns with A-level learning outcomes but also offers a platform to explore the ethical considerations and benefits of gene editing in humans, all while delving into ongoing research at the Gurdon Institute, particularly in Alzheimer's Disease and the revolutionary CRISPR-Cas9 technology.

To continue, students who have used this kit report that it was a fascinating and enjoyable learning experience. They emphasize that the kit effectively communicated the concept of gene editing in an engaging and interactive way. Furthermore, one student joyfully states that ‘the kit not only increased my understanding of the subject but also considerably improved my communication and teamwork abilities.’ Without a doubt, this kit has a significant influence on students' learning since it efficiently mixes lessons with fun, producing a complete and enjoyable educational experience.

As the "Unlocking Genetic Editing" toolkit and its companion resources find their way into classrooms, they represent more than just puzzle games; they embody a collaborative effort to revolutionize biology education.

More information can be found and accessed via their website- SCoPE (scopegurdoninstitute.co.uk)