The Industrial Biotechnology Teacher Experience (IBTE) is an 80-hour hybrid professional development program designed for secondary and post-secondary educators who are (or will be) teaching biotechnology courses*, Project Lead the Way’s Biomedical Science curriculum, or any science course in which biotechnology concepts and techniques may be integrated.
The primary aim of this course is to provide experience with the skills, techniques, and knowledge to teach biotechnology curricula in the context of working in the biotech industry. In addition, there will be guidance and practice with the preparative steps necessary for the hands-on components of the program. Industry experience will include the design, development, testing, and manufacture of a biopharmaceutical product. Participants will develop an understanding of the departmental roles and careers, as well as the criteria associated with working in this highly regulated environment.
➡ Why take IBTE?
*Completion of this course earns district certification for existing Biology and Chemistry educators in the state of Florida, enabling them to teach the CTE components of the program.
This program is based on a flipped classroom format. Prior to a week-long session of hands-on training, participants will complete four modules of self-paced lectures, complementary coursework, and assessments. Each module will take approximately 8-10 hours to complete, including the review session.
Participants choose one of two cohorts that end in a week of hands-on training in Gainesville, FL. During this training week, participants will complete hands-on activities and techniques aligned with content presented in each of the online modules. Participants will also have the option to sit for the Biotechnology Aptitude & Competency Exam (BACE) — please see further information below.
Summer 2025 – registration opening soon
|
|
| Course Launch Date |
May 1 |
| Module 1 (Asynchronous) Due Date |
May 18 |
| Module 2 (Asynchronous) Due Date |
May 25 |
| Module 3 (Asynchronous) Due Date |
June 1 |
| Module 4 (Asynchronous) Due Date |
June 8 |
| In-Person Cohort (Gainesville, FL) |
Cohort 1: June 16-19 OR Cohort 2: June 23-26 |
| Sit for the BACE (optional) |
Cohort 1: June 20 OR Cohort 2: June 27 |
Please note: there is a minimum registration number required to run each session. If the number is not met for a session, all registrants will be notified three weeks prior to the start of the course.
Sit for the BACE (optional):
- Challenge the BACE live on the Friday of your in-person week
- Challenge the BACE remotely within seven days of completing the IBTE program
What’s included in the IBTE registration fee?
The IBTE registration fee includes course and lab materials, the BACE (optional), and lunch/snacks/coffee Monday through Friday (onsite).
What are the hours for the onsite portion?
The onsite course days are Monday-Thursday, 8:00am to 5:00pm, with a 30-minute lunch break. The BACE (optional) will take place on Friday, starting at 8:00am (end time varies, pending the conclusion of your exam).
Is transportation included?
We have found that most attendees prefer to carpool, so we will provide a ride-share board for you to discuss transportation options with your fellow attendees. If after trying the board you are still in need of transportation for an IBTE-related activity, please contact us and we will be happy to assist.
