The pace of discovery in the life sciences is breathtaking. The Human Genome Project is laying bare the genetic underpinnings of human health, while neuroscience is revealing the biological basis of perception, memory and behavior. Biomedical research promises to deliver substantial benefits, but also poses unprecedented questions for society.

How will these new technologies affect our lives in the future?

What ethical guidelines should apply?

Through an innovative mix of web drama and factual information our Genetic Futures Website allows you to explore the human dilemmas posed by these new technologies.

This site has been approved by the National Grid for Learning

"This site provides and excellent introduction to genetics as well as allowing students to push the boundary on the possibilities of genetic modification, cloning and xenotransplantation.

It has an interesting and very engaging way of putting the possible issues across and links very well
to the new Science Key Stage 4 Programme of Study, released September 2006 .

It would also be an excellent resource for teaching 21st Century Science GCSE. "

The site features adaptations for the web of five Y Touring Theatre of Debate productions and resources, and one co production made with Maverick Television

The Plays

The Gift by Nicola Baldwin (Theme – genetic selection)

Pig in the Middle by Judy Upton (Theme - animal to human transplants)

Sweet As You Are (Theme – genetic modification of crops)

Cracked by Nicola Baldwin (Theme – the genetic basis of mental illness)

Learning to Love the Grey by Jonathan Hall (Theme– stem cell therapy and cloning)

Making Astronauts by Jonathan Hall (Theme – genes and behaviour)

	For further information about this project, email our Tour Producer David Jackson