DNA can solve a crime, identify a future disease, and distinguish our common ancestors. A remarkable molecule, it has often been referred to as the “building block of life.”

Advances in molecular biology and biotechnology have led to an explosion in our understanding of DNA, how it impacts us as individuals, and as a society. This 4-week online pre college course will introduce the concepts and techniques associated with DNA science and address some of its diverse applications including medicine, forensics, evolution, and genetically modified organisms.

Students will explore current topics and cutting edge techniques associated with these applications through virtual activities and animations. In addition, students will experience the process of scientific inquiry first-hand, and what it means to be a scientist through analysis and interpretation of experimental results.

Advances in DNA science are not without controversy. Students will investigate these issues through online discussion about the ethical, legal and social implications of DNA science.

Course duration and weekly assignments:

Fall and Spring pre college courses are 4 weeks long, and require approximately 5 hours per week to complete coursework and assignments. The pre college Summer course is an intensive 2- week program and requires approximately 10 hours per week.

Course Outline

Week 1 Introduction to DNA Science

Week 2 Cancer: A Human Genetic Disease

Week 3 DNA and Forensics

Week 4 Genetically Modified Organisms

Build your scientific skills:

  • Explore concepts and techniques associated with DNA science
  • Understand the advances in DNA science and how this knowledge impacts individuals and societies
  • Discover how DNA is used to solve crimes, identify future disease, distinguish common ancestry, and produce genetically modified organisms
  • Research the genes that cause cancer
  • Experience the process of scientific inquiry in virtual lab activities
  • Analyze and interpret experimental results
  • Analyze DNA gels in the virtual lab
  • Diagnose virtual patients based on DNA testing results
  • Discuss ethical, legal, and social implications of DNA science
  • Virtually meet specialists who work with DNA knowledge/application implications.

How you will learn:

  • Analyze DNA gels in the virtual lab
  • Diagnose virtual patients based on DNA testing results
  • Discuss ethical, legal, and social implications of DNA science
  • Virtually meet specialists who work with DNA knowledge/application implications.

Prerequisites:

One year of high school Biology is recommended.

Additional course books and supplies:

Approximately $20

Technical requirements for this online course:

  • Computer with an internet connection
  • Internet access
  • Internet browser
  • Headphones or speakers
  • Microphone
  • Valid and active Brown ID (you will receive these credentials upon registering for the course)–

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Brown University Online Courses
Refund Policy: Students who withdraw before the class starts will receive a full refund less $300 non-refundable deposit. Students who withdraw after the start of class through the fifth day of class will receive a 50% refund, less $300 non-refundable deposit. Students who withdraw after the fifth day of class will not be eligible for a refund.