The IBO Educational Conference

The IBO Educational Conferences are coordinated by Gérard Cobut (Belgium), whose involvement is supported by a grant from "Wallonie-Bruxelles International", the body responsible for Belgium's Wallonia-Brussels international relations.

2025 — Schools Unlimited

On Friday, July 25, 2025 another IBO Educational Conference will take place during the IBO 2025 event in Quezon City, Philippines. This year, the specific aim is to involve about 100 Philippine public school teachers in the IBO program. The lecturers/trainers will be volunteers from the IBO Jury. Other IBO jury members are of course welcome to attend (provided the jury room allows them some freedom). The Educational Conference 2025 is supported by the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), a government agency dedicated to improving science education in the Philippines.

There will be three themed sessions, each with two parallel workshops / talks of 50 minutes. There is a short break between each session.

Abstracts

Isabella Marini, Italy

Protein Inquiry: Bridging Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis with BYOD* Tools

This inquiry-based educational proposal explores protein analysis through a progression of hands-on activities that engage students from qualitative observations to quantitative measurements. It compares data obtained through naked-eye inspections and personal mobile devices (BYOD, "Bring Your Own Device") with results from colorimetric assays. This comparison aims to evaluate the accessibility, reliability, and educational value of BYOD tools in a classroom setting. The approach supports the development of critical thinking and technical skills while aligning with modern STEM education frameworks. It fosters active student participation and deepens the understanding of the transition from descriptive to data-driven scientific inquiry.

Paola Pereira, Argentina

The Imperative of Technology in Modern Biology Education

Biology education faces a paradigm shift as technology becomes integral to understanding complex concepts like genetic engineering, ecosystems, and cellular processes. Tools such as virtual laboratories, interactive simulations, and adaptive learning platforms offer immersive experiences that transcend traditional textbook learning. However, global disparities in resource access, particularly in low-income and rural areas, create inequities in educational outcomes. This proposal addresses strategies to bridge this gap, ensuring all students benefit from technological advancements while aligning with sustainable development goals (SDGs) in education and environmental stewardship.

Victor Lau Kwok-chi, Hong-Kong China

Using tangible models and analogy in teaching biology

(Short talk followed by some models touched and played by the audiences)

Tangible models are commonly used in classroom to show biological structures, but the power of models in illustrating complex biological processes has been largely undermined. This seminar will illustrate how models can be effectively used to tackle common misconceptions in biology and foster conceptual understanding. The examples include enzyme, lungs, eyes, heart valves and osmosis, which are all DIY models that can be made by teachers and students.

Nur Fazidah Binti Asmuje, Malaysia

Nurturing the Scientific Mindset of Gifted Learners: Insights and Experiences

Gifted students are characterized by high curiosity and critical thinking. Their potential may contributes to society by solving problems and advancing knowledge in their chosen fields, such as biology. Studies however have reported that many gifted students do not reach their full potential, which then leads to underachievement. Some studies have shown that a growth mindset in research can overcome this issue. Therefore, we share insights and experiences from initiatives at Kolej PERMATA Insan, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, a Malaysian residential school dedicated to gifted and talented learners that integrate scientific inquiry with ethical, cultural, and interdisciplinary perspectives to foster research skills and attitudes. These practices can support and enhance efforts to strengthen research techniques, teaching, and training among a broader population of public school students.

Bob Roddie, Canada

Removing Barriers to Learning Biology

This interactive presentation will allow educators to experience teaching complex biological/scientific processes using inclusive, hands-on, and inexpensive materials. The activities will demonstrate how it is possible to teach challenging concepts without always needing specialized equipment for quality results. Bob Roddie will bring his experience both as a secondary biology/science educator, as well as, his role as lead educator at WWEST (at the University of British Columbia) supporting teacher professional development.

Liam Hewson, New Zealand

Secondary metabolites and science education in rural New Zealand

Aotearoa New Zealand is home to a fascinating diversity of native plants and fungi, with a rich history of traditional uses by the indigenous Māori peoples for healing and health. Today, Māori face health inequities, including higher rates of infectious disease and limited access to science education, especially in rural areas.

I will present our research-informed science education programme which has brought drug discovery science into schools (new entrants to school leavers) and a first-year university laboratory course. In partnership with Māori partners, our work interprets taxonomic variation, antimicrobial resistance and biological activity through a chemical lens, making these difficult concepts visible and accessible.

2024 — Digital Life Sciences

The Educational Conference 2024 is hosted by the Republican scientific and practical center "Daryn" of the Ministry of education of the Republic of Kazakhstan. It takes places at Friday, July 12, 2024 — 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM in the Conference hall - Radisson Hotel, Astana.

Program

30 min for each presentation, including Q&A

Main introduction

Presentation

1. At the Crossroad of Biology, Chemistry, and Machine Learning: Catalase Assay by Iodine Clock Reaction

Takao Ishikawa, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Poland

Presentation — Abstract

Up-to-date, interdisciplinary, and spectacular methods that are easily accessible for students and high school teachers can vastly enhance the learning process and boost students’ interest in biological sciences. Here, I describe a novel method based on the iodine clock reaction and a machine learning algorithm for the activity assay of catalase, a model enzyme used worldwide in biology and chemistry education. This method enables students to learn the chemistry behind the assay, the application of machine learning in a classification problem, and basic programming. Together, these components provide an accurate and extremely low-cost quantitative method for determining catalase activity.

2. Shells to Machine Learning: Empowering e-Students' skills

Isabella Marini, Chairperson, National Association of Natural Science Teachers, Italy

Presentation — Abstract

This proposal enriches the shell identification process for younger high school students, transforming a classic dichotomous key lesson into an engaging Machine Learning (ML) activity; it combines an active learning strategy (Inquiry Based Learning) with digital tools.

It starts with a hands-on beach collection, sparking curiosity about the collected shells. Students then propose the challenge of identifying their finds. After a traditional introduction to create dichotomous keys based on shell features, some students suggest using smartphone apps for automated identification. This natural curiosity leads to the question: how do these apps work? So I introduce the basics of ML and its applications by guiding the students to develop a simple classification model for their shell images. These ML tasks, while simple, are engaging enough to ignite student interest in ML and its potential. Students begin to grasp the power and limitations of this technology, transforming them from passive learners to creators of intelligent solutions.

3. Introducing Bioinformatics in the Biology Olympiad: Opportunities and Challenges

Giorgio Bianchini, University of Bristol (UK) and National Association of Natural Science Teachers, Italy

Presentation — Abstract

Bioinformatics has become integral to modern biology, driven by innovative methodologies and advancements in computational power. It can be applied to all stages of the scientific inquiry process, enabling biologists to generate data, make observations, draw inferences, test hypotheses, and visualise results. Given its significance, it is fitting that bioinformatics be incorporated into the Biology Olympiad, both at national levels and at the International Biology Olympiad. This opens up exciting opportunities to introduce new topics and cutting-edge technologies into our assessments; however, technological challenges may also arise. In this talk, I will share our experiences from the past two years of integrating bioinformatics practicals into the Italian Biology Olympiad. I will discuss the challenges we faced and our strategies for overcoming these obstacles.

4. Computational research in Microbiology

Askarbek Orakov, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Kazakhstan

Presentation — Abstract

Microbiology is benefitting more and more from computational research. Census of microbial life and their phylogeny, research on microbiomes of humans, soil and oceans and even experimental microbiology are becoming increasingly digitalised and computationally intricate. Introducing more bioinformatics at Biology Olympiads can inspire and better prepare students for increasingly computational life sciences research.

5. The Role of Technology in Science Competitions

Open discussion led by Gérard Cobut, IBO Steering Committee member

Slide — Abstract

Addressing the growing role of digital tools, online platforms, and virtual competitions, we'll discuss:

• how technology can on the one hand expand access and diversify participation in science competitions.
• On the other hand, do those tools enhance the competitions educational value?

2023 — Biology Education: a Key Factor for a Sustainable World

July 10, 2023 — 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM — Auditorium, Crescent Building, UAE University, Al Ain

Program

Presentations

Duration: 20 min each

• Saumitra Chakravarty, Bangladesh: Quantitative simulator-based learning of ecology and evolution
  Presentation
  Simulator URL : http://saumitra-chakravarty.com/hardy-weinberg-simulator
• Kathy Frame, USA: Antarctica First Look Expedition Highlights
  Presentation
  
• Abdulsamie Hanano, Syria: Open biology towards sustainable thinking
  Presentation
• Mohammad Al Qassem, UAE, Central Veterinary Research Laboratory Dubai: The Arabian Oryx in the UAE: Novel Insights Into Life-Threatening Diseases
  (Presentation not available)
  Lab Annual Report 2022: http://cvrl.ae/an/anrp/CVRL-AnnualReport2022.pdf

Panel discussion

Moderated by H.E. Dr. Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, assistant Undersecretary for Care and Capacities Building Sector

Duration: 30 min

• Ryoichi Matsuda, Japan, former IBO Chair
• Dennis Kappei, Germany + Singapore
• Eljakim Schrijvers, The Netherlands

2022 — The IBO Way to Excellence

Ani Plaza Hotel, Yerevan, Armenia — Saturday, July 16, 2022

Contents

Each presentation should last ± 30 minutes. PPT or video is available below, next to each abstract.

Morning Session

1. NBO as a Socio-Cultural Movement

Saumitra Chakravarty, Bangladesh

Abstract — Presentation

Bangladesh is a recent country, which started out as secular. Nonetheless, it currently experiences brutal attacks by religious fundamentalists on scientific public figures, religious minorities, women, LGBTQ+. Anti-science propaganda blooms over the social media.

To fight this social ill, law enforcement is hardly enough. Science movements are emerging; Bangladesh Biology Olympiad is one of them. We are NOT working against any religion because we respect every faith. Rather, we are trying to instil love and passion for science in young minds, which may act as an antidote against indoctrination. Our NBO is not just a selection process to choose IBO competitors, but a nation-wide program to attract young minds towards science. Although our programs are not obstructed by our current government, we did not receive any financial support from our government or private companies yet. On the opposite, we faced attempts at sabotage and smear campaign against our organization.

Even in the face of potential death threats and lack of finance, we dream to build a better future for Bangladesh through science movements, aiming at valuing humanity over sectarianism.

2. Responding to girls’ educational barriers in Afghanistan

Qurban Ali Waezi & Rahmkhuda Karimi, Afghanistan

Abstract — Presentation

The quality of government schools in Afghanistan has worsened due to Covid-19, insecurity and the recent power shifts. The Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan limited access for females to education across the country. Afghan students are required to pass Kankor University Entrance exam to qualify for higher education, but 12-grade students could not complete their curriculum to pass the Kankor exam in March 2022.

Therefore, Aga Khan Education Service has established supplementary educational programs in Afghanistan to support the pupils in science and math subjects. The program goal is as follows:

• enhancing the knowledge and skills of secondary students in science and math subjects to enhance their knowledge and skills;
• enhancing students’ performance at the Kankor (university entrance exam).

3. Introducing High School Students to Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering

Mohammed Kurdi Al-Dulaimi & Ahmed Faris, Qatar

Abstract — Presentation

For a period of 4 years, the students at QSTSS are exposed to different learning experiences in biotechnology, microscopy and digital imaging, biomechanics, biosensors, and bioinformatics.
This provides an opportunity to explore the role of genetic engineers and biomedical engineers in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases through well-designed procedures and advanced technology. Ultimately, more students are inspired to pursue their studies in the biomedical and biomedical engineering fields.

4. A Good Reader Today will be a Good Writer Tomorrow

Abdulsamie Hanano, Syria

Abstract — Presentation

We focus on practical guidelines on how students can be familiarized with scientific publications:

• Academic publishing of scientific papers: where and how students can find scientific publications in biology.
• Structure of a typical scientific paper in biological sciences.
• Practical guidelines for an effective and critical reading of a scientific paper.
• A brief highlight on the writing of a scientific paper: order of process.

This will give students key information to start discovering the world of scientific publication.

5. IBO Outreach to School Children

Surgeon BC, Nepal (Zoom videoconference)

Abstract

The excellence in the IBO is a result of the hard work of the different parties involved. The national organizer has to inform, educate and inspire to participate in the NBO, then excel in the bio-science.
Excellent results are all about preparation, for years. We need to penetrate the IBO idea to the school children from very young age.

IBO Penetration to School Children includes information about the prestigious IBO they can dream of to grab a GOLD medal, educating them about biological science and its day to day life connectivity; and further inspire them towards a biological science career. The connection to great biologists helps them to imagine themselves further. We can penetrate IBO to our schools in various ways, which we will discuss.

I’m confident that the national organizers are capable enough to do them all. Numerous NBOs are doing creative works, but this time we need to share our ideas to everyone and inspire the world of young innovators.

Afternoon Session

6. Memories of a Fossil: 1989-2021 IBO Highlights

Gérard Cobut, Belgium

Abstract — Presentation

Gérard Cobut is currently the most experienced IBO Jury Member (read: a quasi-Fossil), as he was involved since the very foundation of our International Biology Olympiad. He will present a selection of outstanding moments and interesting characters, which have shaped what the IBO has become.

7. Keeping the Link Alive between Former IBO Competitors - Developing an Alumni Network

Fatimah S. Alhamlan, Saudi Arabia

Abstract — Presentation

Saudi Arabia has established an Alumni network to optimize the efforts in supporting its students. Its goals:

• Empowering the youth and directing them to key initiatives serving SDGs to increase the social impact
• Building a network of young talents with different specializations who will contribute to economic development
• Support Career building for the Alumni

During the presentation, we will propose a model for the IBO community - and discuss it.

8. IBO and Assessment

Sandor Ban, Hungary

Abstract — Presentation

Did you ever wonder what makes an IBO gold medallist? What is more important? Is it the ability to grasp the terminology of biology, the interpersonal or IT skills, the tricky true/false questions success rate, or the scientific mind? Whatever we want to assess, we first need to clarify these questions. This short presentation attempts to open the space for a dialogue between traditional and innovative assessment approaches to keep up with the constant evolution of the IBO tests.

9. The IBO Website as a Tool for Developing our Educational Community

Gérard Cobut, Belgium

Abstract

The IBO was early in developing its web pages (1997). A brand-new version was launched in early 2020. Besides sharing practical information, it aims at being a tool in the service of education, worldwide.
We will discuss various possible uses: comparing biological education systems, keeping a link between former IBO competitors, inspiring each other in designing creative, high quality tasks for assessing pupils’ capacity, etc. The audience will be invited to participate on a co-creative basis.