Why you should join the Commission of Biological Education (CBE-IUBS) as an Associated Member?

 During the last thirty years biology has advanced considerably, playing a central role in the development of the society and impacting almost every human activity. Rapid strides in research within the various fields of biology have transformed its overall landscape, resulting in the development of new fields of genetics, biochemistry, biophysics, biodiversity, neurobiology, immunology, etc. with molecular biology taking the dominant position. Innovative approaches using cell and molecular biology techniques resulted in a better understanding of biological forms, processes and functions. Breakthroughs have been achieved not only in the knowledge of the brain functioning, but also in the comprehension of global ecological cycles and global change phenomena. With the new visualization of the earth from space, improved global ecological models and monitoring, more attention is now being paid to the question biodiversity and ecosystem sustainability.

Applications of new technologies and recent biological advances in biotechnologies, genetic engineering, reproductive controls, etc., have important bearings on society through the production of new drugs, diagnostic procedures and clinical techniques as well as improvements in agricultural methods and anti-pollution processes.

Paradoxically, with the advances of biological sciences, biological illiteracy has also increased, and the gap between researchers and the general public has widened.

Use of computers and new communication technologies have transformed the acquisition biological knowledge. It has not only provided access to more people, but has also brought within their reach large databases. Further, it has encouraged greater interaction among teachers, scientists and students, and has opened the door to create new ways of teaching and popularizing science in schools and communities.

 There is a need at present to reconsider the relevance and effectiveness of biological education in our society. The new biological knowledge and biotechnologies have raised many questions especially in relation to ethics and these must not be ignored in the process.

Education and Ethics and their linkage with biology, health, environment and sustainability are the priorities of the CBE. So, the Commission is inviting all those concerned with the reorientation of biology and its education with reference to the said priorities to join it and share from its platform their experiences, discuss and help formulate future policies for the improvement of biology education in co-operation with mass-media, museums, NGOs and communication technologies.

 As an Associated Member, you can work on all of these points and issues, you can promote your ideas in the fields of biology education (with special references to Bioliteracy, Biodiversity, Bioethics, Biotechnology, Health and Sustainable Society) including teaching-learning techniques, teachers education and training and general public awareness and understanding.

At the same time, you can promote your publications and join a network of persons involved in various innovative activities and programmes related to biology education. You may also take part in the forums and seminars or meetings organized by the Commission on the subject. You may send your pertinent publications for possible emplacement on the CBEís web site for wider distribution.

How can you join the CBE Commission as an Associated Member?

 Membership may be achieved simply on demand or by application accompanied by a payment of $/Euro 40,00 in the case of individuals, $/Euro 400.00 for research groups or laboratories, and $/Euro 4000.00 for sponsor institutions. Cheques or money for dues can be sent to the credit of IUBS as below:

 IUBS Bank: Crédit Lyonnais; Agence Gericault; 141, Avenue Mozart, 141, Avenue Mozart; 75016 PARIS.

Account Number: 820 5045D.

For student members and those from developing countries, a number of exemptions/grants may be negotiated with IUBS.

Contact: Talal Younès, Executive Director, IUBS

<secretariat@iubs.org>.

How can you become a full member?

After two years, you can become a full Member of the Commission.

This category should require a formal application accompanied by a motivation letter, CV, and a sample of original work promoting the teaching-learning and/or teacher education in Biology Education and Ethics (e.g. A certificate of teacher training, a review of a discussion topic, DVD etc., a research project on an innovation ready for implementation in collaboration with other members).

Each application will be subject to final approval and acceptance by the Executive Committee of the CBE and endorsed by the parent body (IUB).