Industrial Biotechnology Teacher Experience (IBTE)

Professional Development for Bioscience Educators

Course Description

Industrial Biotechnology Teacher Experience (IBTE) is an 80-hour professional development program designed for 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 the 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.

Course Format

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.

Two one-week cohorts of hands-on training are scheduled to be held at our training facility in Alachua, FL. Participants choose the week they prefer to attend. During this 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 Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam (BACE); please see further information below.

IBTE 2023 Schedule

	Cohort 1 *selling out fast!	Cohort 2
Course Launch Date	May 1	May 1
Module 1 (Asynchronous) Due Date	May 19	May 19
Module 2 (Asynchronous) Due Date	May 26	May 26
Module 3 (Asynchronous) Due Date	June 2	June 2
Module 4 (Asynchronous) Due Date	June 9	June 9
In-Person Cohort (Alachua, FL)	June 19-23	June 26-30

Note: Registration closes April 17, 2023.

Sit for the BACE (Optional):

Challenge the BACE live on the Friday of your chosen cohort date (June 23 OR June 30).
Challenge the BACE remotely within seven days of completing the IBTE program

ibtefaq

Frequently Asked Questions

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).

Should I bring a laptop to the in-person training week?

A laptop is suggested but not required for the in-person training week.

Are accommodations included?

Accommodations are not included, but we will offer attendees a discounted rate for a nearby hotel (information provided after registration).

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.

What meals are provided? Will food allergies/sensitivities be accommodated?

Lunch and snacks will be provided each day of your final (onsite) week. Our contracted hotel will also provide a complimentary breakfast.

For meals provided by Biotility: special dietary requests will be collected during registration and re-confirmed before the final week.

What's the deadline to register?

Registration closes April 17, 2023.

What do I do if the cohort I wanted is no longer available?

Email demarcos@cerhb.ufl.edu to be placed on a waitlist.

I’ve registered for IBTE. What’s my next step?

You should receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of registration. This email will include a copy of your registration information, our course policies and procedures, your IBTE registration packet, and an IBTE registration survey. Please review the email, all attachments, and complete the survey as soon as possible. If you don’t receive this email, please let us know as soon as possible.

Who do I contact if I have additional questions?

Contact Educational Specialist Stephanie DeMarco at demarcos@cerhb.ufl.edu or schedule a meeting.

Course Information

	Fee	$2350.00
	Course Type	Combination (Online Asynchronous and Live)
	Instructor	Stephanie DeMarco
	Duration	80 hours

Registration closes April 17, 2023 but spots are limited. We strongly recommend registering early.

If your preferred cohort sells out, please email demarcos@cerhb.ufl.edu to be placed on a waitlist.

“IBTE was a wonderful immersion into the world of biotechnology and a great experience. By far the best professional development I have attended.”

Amanda Barrett
Honors Chemistry & Biotechnology Teacher
Marietta High School