About this Course
Genetics permeates every aspect of the 21st century, from our doctors' offices to our judicial systems. By the end of this course, you’ll be well prepared to deal with both today’s genetic issues and new questions that are sure to arise in the future. This challenging but very rewarding course focuses on the genetics issues that impact our health and well-being, while providing the same rigorous examination of genetics principles as a college genetics course. The course is taught in two parts. Part 2 consists of 5 modules followed by a final exam. You’ll learn how genes are passed from parents to child, and what you do and don’t inherit from your ancestors. You’ll be able to analyze family relationships and to evaluate and explain to others claims about GMOs, epigenetics and other controversial issues.
What You'll Learn
- How our genes form new combinations as they pass from parent to child How to predict some genetic outcomes Why other genetic outcomes can’t be predicted How our chromosomes change, and why this matters How to compare GMOs with conventionally-bred plants How to communicate what you’ve learned to your family and community
Prerequisites
- If you have not taken Useful Genetics Part 1 you will need some prior knowledge of basic genetics (first-year college biology or a recent high school biology course).
Instructors
Rosemary Redfield