What is discover the plasma?

"Discover the Plasma" is an innovative teaching program that enhances North Carolina middle school science curricula and raises awareness about life-saving plasma-derived medicines for the treatment and prevention of rare and chronic diseases.

Partnership in education

“Discover the Plasma” was developed by Grifols in partnership with Johnston County Schools and Johnston Community College in North Carolina. The program was designed to fit within the science core curriculum for North Carolina. Grifols successfully piloted the “Discover the Plasma” program at three Johnston County middle schools during the 2014-2015 school year. It is currently an educational resource for all middle schools in the county.

About Johnston Community College

Johnston Community College (JCC) has awarded associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas since 1969 to students pursuing college transfer, occupational, technical, and continuing education opportunities.

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About Johnston County Schools

Johnston County Schools (JCS) teaches over 34,000 students in grades  pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade and is committed to empowering  students to become successful in a global society.

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Teaches students about the plasma industry

Prior to the program rollout, Grifols provided all middle schools with workbooks, access to an online virtual lab, and training for teachers to ensure an interactive learning experience. Grifols also sends a representative to answer students' questions once a school completes the program.

 
 

How does it work?

“Discover the Plasma” provides teachers and students with a range of materials for a dynamic learning experience. Program materials include a workbook, a virtual lab that contains videos, comics, and links to relevant websites, as well as a variety of laboratory activities that allow students to grasp the concepts in a fun way. The teacher’s handbook includes methodological guidance for planning and teaching lessons.

Student's site

Methodology

Students learn through a process of inquiry-based learning (IBL); the students’ exploration and investigation guide the learning experience, and all the resources and activities are designed to support the process of knowledge, investigation, and analysis. The basic stages of a scientific inquiry based on IBL require students to define and research a problem, share findings, and draw conclusions.

The IBL methodology also incorporates the principle of a “flipped classroom.” Students first complete some key content at home, and the classroom then provides them the opportunity to share and learn with their classmates. This approach saves time and optimizes classroom learning.

Required materials

Student Workbook

Teacher Guide

Teacher and Student Virtual Labs

(microsites on the internet)

Lab equipment and disposable materials