Public Engagement:
Understanding Animals in Research Workshops

In 2007 the Babraham Institute started to run half-day workshops for key stage 4 students from local secondary schools to stimulate discussion around the ethical issues of using animals in research and to provide valuable insights into careers such as animal technology. In Britain, decisions on how and when animals are used in experiments are made not only by the scientists directly concerned but also independent panels and government officials.

This event was designed to explain how this process works and includes talks about the use of animals in research, case studies high-lighting breakthroughs in medicine and healthcare and an interactive talk by a member of the Institute of Animal Technology. There is also an opportunity for pupils to freely discuss the issues in small groups, express their views and report back to the class. In addition to encouraging students to think about the wider social and ethical implications of science and its applications, the information obtained from this event can be used towards students’ GCSE coursework.

In 2010, based on feedback from staff and students who had attended previous workshops, more ‘hands-on’ activities were introduced into the programme, such as a card-game where students have to think about how medicines are made. A dressing up game was also introduced where several students volunteer to dress up as an animal technician and the fastest one wins a prize! This competition has been very popular and not only introduces a new fun element into the programme but also the concept that animal facilities need to be sterile and the animals need to be kept in good health. During 2010 we delivered this event to 104 students from three different schools. Students often comment after the event that they enjoyed “finding out about the animals in a research facility” and the “group discussions”. One student wrote on their feedback from, “I enjoyed finding out about the work done here, because I didn’t know anything before about it. The clothes competition was fun!”

Many of the students who attend already agree with using animals in research before the event, however for those who do not or who are unsure this event often changes their opinion. Many students also consider a career in science as a result. John Meredith, the Education Manager from Understanding Animals in Research, attended one of these events and commented on the good mixture of presentations, discussions and activities. In 2011 we aim to run this event for four different schools to approximately 160 students.

For information see www.understandinganimalresearch.org.uk/schoolzone/

Quotes from attendees

“The pupils from CVC were extremely surprised by the attention to detail that goes into the infrastructure of the Institute. Many found that their opinions had shifted significantly, from quite a negative view, to a much more open-minded position. The visit raised awareness of the work of the institute and gave them valuable insight into how ‘real science’ as opposed to ‘school science’ operates. You may be interested to know that several pupils who came to see you chose to do their case study on ‘Is animal testing justified?’ (They research and give a balanced argument for a contentious scientific issue). In short, you and the other speakers clearly made it a memorable experience that does hit home and really has made the pupils think. The case studies I have seen are very thoughtful and well-supported with evidence. We are getting there!”
(K Geall, Head of Science Cottenham Village College).

“I learned about the ethics and why we need testing. The lecture was interesting. I do enjoy science but I was not considering a career in science. I would however consider it as a second option if my Drama went wrong and I would consider being an animal technician because I do love animals and I do also like biology. I liked the way the animals were treated and looked after.”
Asa Hedge, year 10 pupil.