GK-12 Sensors!
Portable Module
Title: Ethical Issues in Neurotechnology
Author: Eeva Hedefine
Discipline: Science and Technology,
Social Studies
Introduction
Tremendous advances
are being made in the technology field today. Some advances in the
field of neurotechnology involve implanting electrodes within the
human brain and elsewhere in the body. New devices include cochlear
implants to restore hearing to the deaf, retinal prosthetics to
allow the blind to see, and electrodes in the brain to allow paralyzed
individuals to communicate by means of a computer cursor. However,
potential uses of these technologies and others raise certain ethical
issues. This module will help students to realize some of the issues
that arise from the use of new technology and the importance to
society of considering such issues.
Learning Results
Science and Technology
M. Implications of Science and Technology
Required Equipment
-
Boyce, Nell. “Enter the Cyborgs: Promise
and Peril in a Marriage of Brains and Silicon.” U.S. News
& World Report 13 May 2002: 56-58.
- Homework questions to go with the above article (attached).
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Websites relating to the subject of electrode
implantation:
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Have students read the article “Enter the
Cyborgs”, answer the questions provided on the article, and
then bring them to the next class period. During that class period
you can initiate a discussion on some of the issues raised by the
article. Some of the discussion questions could include # 5, 8,
9 and 10 from the homework questions, either as applying specifically
to the technology addressed in the article, or to technology in
general. General ethical issues relating to effects on society could
include privacy and autonomy, two issues usually of interest to
high school students. Provide the students with the list of websites
found in the Required Equipment section so they can get additional
information on how the technology works.
Read the article “Enter the Cyborgs”
and answer the questions. As you do, think about how the technology
mentioned in particular, as well as technology in general, affects
humans and society. Consider both good and bad effects of technology
and what issues are raised. Come to the next class prepared to discuss
your thoughts, especially your answers to questions #5, 8, 9, and
10. A list of websites containing more information on electrode
implants will be given to you as well. You may wish to look at some
of these sites to gain a better understanding of the technology
involved.
Expected results
The goal of this module is to get students thinking about the effects
technology has on society, both short term and long term effects.
By considering these effects, students can be helped to appreciate
that technological advances can have both advantages and disadvantages.
Making a responsible decision involves taking into account many
different factors and weighing the importance of each. There may
be no clear right answer to a problem or situation, and it is often
difficult to foresee future effects.
Other Sources
National Academy of Engineering Workshop on Emerging Technologies
and Ethical Issues, Washington, DC, October 14-15, 2003.
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