Plant biotechnology is a discipline that connects the new insights into genes and their products with the end product that is destined for the market. As with other technological disciplines, plant biotechnology comprises a mixture of many other scientific areas of biological sciences such as molecular biology, biochemistry, physiology and genetics. In this course we will present information on the basics of classical plant biotechnology through to advanced methods for modifying and improving plants and plant products. This will be done using knowledge clips, exercises, study of a set textbook and recent scientific publications. In addition the participants will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained during the course and use their own creativity in the form of an group assignment that will run throughout the course. Another main feature of the course will be to analyse and assess the implications of this new technology for wider society. The assignment will form a central part of the course and will be submitted in the form of a written report and a presentation the latter will be reviewed and evaluated by fellow students. The presentations and debates will form part of practical week at the WUR campus.
