DNA Science and Its Application in Everyday Life
DNA Science and Its Application in Everyday Life chronicles the history of DNA, genetics, applications in medicine and food, genetic genealogy, and many more fascinating topics. As you unravel the mysteries of the double-helix, you will discover that the science of DNA is captivating and accessible for yourself and your students. Educators will have the opportunity to develop materials for teaching aspects of the science of DNA to their students.
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Course Name: DNA Science and Its Application in Everyday Life |
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Course Number: EDUC 718Y |
Semester Credits: 3 |
Course Description
Do you wish you knew more about DNA? The popularity of home genetic testing kits, increased use of DNA in criminal investigations, and debates over the use of GMOs in food have brought the topic of DNA from research labs into our homes. Yet, many people are still confused about how DNA works and what opportunities genetic technologies present in our everyday lives.
This course begins with a brief overview of genetics and the history of the discovery of DNA. Students will be introduced to how the knowledge of DNA and genetics can be used forensically—and the limitations of such technology. You will explore how DNA can aid us in understanding our genetic genealogy and biological ancestry. Additional course topics focus on the science behind genetic engineering in medicine and pharmaceuticals, as well as in GMOs for food and agriculture. Finally, students will consider provocative ethical and privacy concerns arising from the use of DNA and genetic technologies. This course is designed for the science enthusiast fascinated by everything that touches on DNA--from forensics to genetic disease markers to family genealogy.
Goals
- Acquire basic knowledge of genetics, how cells grow, and the history of DNA.
- Learn the chemical composition of DNA, its physical structure, and how it functions to replicate itself.
- Learn how DNA mutates, the types of mutations, and their consequences.
- Understand why DNA is a miracle molecule depicting the unity of all living things and is the foundation of evolution.
- Learn how genetic information is coded, the mechanics of replication, the universality of DNA translation, and how proteins are made.
- Learn the various methods and techniques used for DNA fingerprinting and practical applications of DNA.
- Learn how to read and analyze your DNA and the medical and health surprises it may contain.
- Understand how to construct a family tree using genetic genealogy.
- Learn about genetic engineering, GMOs, and genome editing.
- Be able to discuss various GMO controversies.
- Learn about the promises of stem cell technology.
- Develop materials for teaching an aspect of the science of DNA
Course Contents
- DNA 101
- Foundations
- Is Human DNA Special?
- Practical Applications Using DNA
- DNA: Up Close and Personal
- Your DNA Reveals Medical and Health Surprises
- Introducing Genetic Genealogy
- Genetic Genealogy: Practical Considerations
- Genetic Engineering, GMOs, and Genome Editing
- Some Uncomfortable Ethical Dilemmas
- Fighting Mother Nature
Evidence of Learning Outcomes
Upon completing DNA Science and Its Application in Everyday Life, the student will have demonstrated knowledge of DNA, genetic technologies, genetic genealogy, and other topics.
How to Register
DNA Science and Its Application in Everyday Life is offered in both an online or emailed PDF format, and all books and materials are included in the registration. Like all of our courses, it is open for anyone to register at any time during a semester. After completion, students earn graduate, non-degree semester credit from an accredited university, as reflected on their official transcript.
Registration is straightforward and can be done online or over the phone. Courses are offered ongoing during three semesters, and you can start whenever you are ready! Students may choose to enroll in up to a maximum of 15-semester credits at any time during each semester. The registration dates are:
- Fall: September 1 - January 31
- Spring: February 1 - May 31
- Summer: June 1 - August 31