Health Quests

Overview
In this activity, the class, working as a whole, stage a panel discussion on medical technologies past and present. To prepare, panelists on the program visit Web sites that provide information on a number of cutting-edge technologies, including MRI, CT scanning, ultrasound, teleradiology, and laser surgery, as well as an overview of the history of radiology. The program is videotaped and, if the school has broadcast facilities, may be aired for the student body.

Objectives

• To investigate discoveries in medical technology outlined at sites on the World Wide Web.
• To communicate this information in a coherent fashion.
• To use critical thinking skills to project future areas of exploration in medical technology.

Getting Started
Ask students to brainstorm ways in which high technology in the twentieth century has benefited humankind. Write some of their responses on the chalkboard. (If they have difficulty with this task initially, get their critical thinking started by noting that computers have enabled us to get tasks done more quickly than ever, or that the building of space probes has permitted humans to learn more about the universe beyond our own planet.) After compiling a sizable list and discussing the benefits of various technologies sites, ask students what they know about the impact of high technology on the field of health care. Help students recognize that computer imaging and the use of lasers in medical procedures have been instrumental in saving lives.

Classroom Follow-up
If the classroom computer is equipped with video-editing software, invite students to create and distribute a VHS tape cassette based on their show. Those with a knowledge of the software might add such features as a music soundtrack, fades, and titles. Copies of the finished product can be donated to local libraries, hospitals, or other community facilities as a public health service.