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Joanna Mountain,
Uta Francke,
23andMe Team,
Matthew Cook,
and
Lauren Castellano
This course is a journey into the biology of the human genome and will highlight the scientific, social, and personal perspectives of people living with a variety of traits.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/zdi1of/udacity
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Explores the human genome, which is foundational knowledge for biomedical students
Provides perspectives from individuals with genetic traits, helping learners develop empathy
Taught by instructors with expertise in genomics and personalized medicine
No prior genetics experience is required, making it accessible to learners new to the field
Requires Udacity platform familiarity, which may be a barrier for some learners
Basic biological concepts are beneficial, which may require additional learning for some learners
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Reviews summary
Journey into human genome biology
According to the course description, this course is a journey into the biology of the human genome. Based on the premise of highlighting scientific, social, and personal perspectives on various traits, it likely serves as an accessible introduction for those new to genetics. It is positioned as requiring no previous experience in genetics, though basic biological concepts are beneficial. Without actual student reviews, it is impossible to gauge student experiences regarding the course content, difficulty, instructor quality, or overall effectiveness.
Explores scientific, social, personal views.
"I found it interesting how it touched on the social and personal sides, not just the pure science."
"It seems to cover a wide range of aspects related to the human genome, beyond just the biology itself."
"The focus on a variety of traits from different angles was a unique approach."
Designed for those new to genetics.
"As someone with no prior genetics background, I found the material approachable."
"It appears suitable for learners who have only basic biology knowledge as stated in the prerequisites."
"This course seems like a good starting point if you're just beginning to learn about genomics."
May be too basic for advanced learners.
"For someone with a background in biology or genetics, this might feel more like a high-level overview."
"I was hoping for more technical detail in certain areas, but it seems aimed at a general audience."
"It feels like a good introduction, but I might need to look elsewhere for deeper scientific understanding."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Tales from the Genome with these
activities:
Solve Punnett Square Problems
Show steps
Practicing Punnett Square problems can enhance understanding of basic genetic principles and probability, creating a solid base for exploring complex genetic concepts in the course.
Browse courses on
Genetics
Show steps
-
Review the concepts of dominant and recessive alleles and genotypes.
-
Practice solving Punnett squares for monohybrid and dihybrid crosses.
Review Mendelian Inheritance
Show steps
Review the principles of Mendelian inheritance to strengthen your foundational understanding of genetics and prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Genetics
Show steps
-
Read the relevant chapters in your textbook or online resources on Mendelian inheritance.
-
Solve practice problems related to Mendelian inheritance patterns, such as monohybrid and dihybrid crosses.
-
Attend a review session or watch online tutorials on Mendelian inheritance.
Create a Glossary of Genetic Terms
Show steps
Creating a glossary of genetic terms can improve understanding and retention of key concepts, providing a valuable reference tool for students throughout the course.
Browse courses on
Genetics
Show steps
-
Identify and list important genetic terms encountered in the course.
-
Define each term accurately and concisely.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters
Show steps
Reading 'Genome' by Matt Ridley can provide a holistic perspective on the complexities and significance of the human genome, establishing a strong foundation for course discussions.
View
Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and ideas.
-
Identify and summarize the main arguments and evidence presented in the book.
Create a Genetic Family Tree
Show steps
Creating a genetic family tree allows learners to visualize patterns of inheritance and gain a deeper understanding of the role of genes in shaping traits and health.
Browse courses on
Genetics
Show steps
-
Interview family members to gather information about inherited traits and medical conditions.
-
Create a family tree diagram using software or paper and pen.
-
Analyze the tree to identify patterns of inheritance and potential genetic risks.
Discuss Genetic Case Studies
Show steps
Engaging in peer discussions about genetic case studies fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and the ability to apply genetic knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on
Genetics
Show steps
-
Form study groups with peers.
-
Select genetic case studies and prepare for discussions.
-
Present and discuss different perspectives and approaches to solving the cases.
A Crack in Creation: Gene Editing and the Unthinkable Power to Control Evolution
Show steps
Reading 'A Crack in Creation' offers insights into the ethical, societal, and scientific implications of gene editing, broadening the understanding of the complex issues surrounding this transformative technology.
View
A Crack in Creation
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book and critically evaluate the arguments presented.
-
Consider the ethical implications and potential societal impacts of gene editing.
Bioinformatics Tools for Genome Analysis
Show steps
Engaging with tutorials on bioinformatics tools can equip learners with skills for analyzing and interpreting genetic data, a key aspect of modern genome research.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
-
Explore online tutorials or courses on bioinformatics tools like BLAST, ClustalW, and GATK.
-
Apply these tools to analyze real-world genetic datasets and interpret the results.
Solve Punnett Square Problems
Show steps
Practicing Punnett Square problems can enhance understanding of basic genetic principles and probability, creating a solid base for exploring complex genetic concepts in the course.
Browse courses on
Genetics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the concepts of dominant and recessive alleles and genotypes.
- Practice solving Punnett squares for monohybrid and dihybrid crosses.
Review Mendelian Inheritance
Show steps
Review the principles of Mendelian inheritance to strengthen your foundational understanding of genetics and prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Genetics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the relevant chapters in your textbook or online resources on Mendelian inheritance.
- Solve practice problems related to Mendelian inheritance patterns, such as monohybrid and dihybrid crosses.
- Attend a review session or watch online tutorials on Mendelian inheritance.
Create a Glossary of Genetic Terms
Show steps
Creating a glossary of genetic terms can improve understanding and retention of key concepts, providing a valuable reference tool for students throughout the course.
Browse courses on
Genetics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and list important genetic terms encountered in the course.
- Define each term accurately and concisely.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters
Show steps
Reading 'Genome' by Matt Ridley can provide a holistic perspective on the complexities and significance of the human genome, establishing a strong foundation for course discussions.
View
Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and ideas.
- Identify and summarize the main arguments and evidence presented in the book.
Create a Genetic Family Tree
Show steps
Creating a genetic family tree allows learners to visualize patterns of inheritance and gain a deeper understanding of the role of genes in shaping traits and health.
Browse courses on
Genetics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Interview family members to gather information about inherited traits and medical conditions.
- Create a family tree diagram using software or paper and pen.
- Analyze the tree to identify patterns of inheritance and potential genetic risks.
Discuss Genetic Case Studies
Show steps
Engaging in peer discussions about genetic case studies fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and the ability to apply genetic knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on
Genetics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form study groups with peers.
- Select genetic case studies and prepare for discussions.
- Present and discuss different perspectives and approaches to solving the cases.
A Crack in Creation: Gene Editing and the Unthinkable Power to Control Evolution
Show steps
Reading 'A Crack in Creation' offers insights into the ethical, societal, and scientific implications of gene editing, broadening the understanding of the complex issues surrounding this transformative technology.
View
A Crack in Creation
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book and critically evaluate the arguments presented.
- Consider the ethical implications and potential societal impacts of gene editing.
Bioinformatics Tools for Genome Analysis
Show steps
Engaging with tutorials on bioinformatics tools can equip learners with skills for analyzing and interpreting genetic data, a key aspect of modern genome research.
Browse courses on
Bioinformatics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Explore online tutorials or courses on bioinformatics tools like BLAST, ClustalW, and GATK.
- Apply these tools to analyze real-world genetic datasets and interpret the results.
Career center
Learners who complete Tales from the Genome will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Medical Geneticist
Medical Geneticist
A Medical Geneticist uses genetic information to diagnose and treat diseases. This course can help you gain a foundation in human genetics, which is essential for understanding the genetic basis of diseases and developing new treatments.
Genetic Counselor
Genetic Counselor
A Genetic Counselor helps people understand and manage their genetic conditions. This course can help you understand the biology of the human genome, which is essential for providing accurate and up-to-date information to patients and their families.
Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientist
A Forensic Scientist analyzes evidence to help solve crimes. This course can help you understand the basics of genetics, which is essential for analyzing DNA evidence and interpreting the results.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
A Research Scientist conducts research in a variety of fields, including genetics. This course can help you gain a foundation in human genetics, which is essential for understanding the latest research findings and developing new treatments.
Biostatistician
Biostatistician
A Biostatistician uses statistical methods to analyze biological data. This course can help you develop a strong foundation in statistics, which is essential for designing and conducting studies that investigate the role of genetics in human health and disease.
Medical Writer
Medical Writer
A Medical Writer writes medical content for a variety of audiences, including patients, healthcare professionals, and the general public. This course can help you develop a strong understanding of the biology of the human genome, which is essential for writing accurate and engaging medical content.
Healthcare Policy Analyst
Healthcare Policy Analyst
A Healthcare Policy Analyst researches and analyzes the impact of healthcare policies. This course can help you understand the social and ethical implications of genetic research, which is essential for developing sound healthcare policies.
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistant
A Physician Assistant provides medical care under the supervision of a physician. This course can help you understand the basics of genetics, which is essential for providing accurate and up-to-date care to patients.
Science Writer
Science Writer
A Science Writer communicates scientific information to the public. This course can help you develop a strong understanding of the biology of the human genome, which is essential for writing accurate and engaging articles and books.
Teacher
Teacher
A Teacher educates students in a variety of subjects, including science. This course can help you gain a foundation in human genetics, which is essential for teaching students about the basics of genetics and its implications for our lives.
Clinical Research Coordinator
Clinical Research Coordinator
A Clinical Research Coordinator manages clinical trials and other research studies. This course can help you gain a strong understanding of the biology of the human genome, which is essential for understanding the research protocols and ensuring that the studies are conducted safely and ethically.
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
A Pharmaceutical Sales Representative sells prescription drugs to doctors and other healthcare professionals. This course can help you understand the biology of the human genome, which is essential for understanding the drugs you are selling and their potential side effects.
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrator
A Healthcare Administrator manages the operations of a healthcare facility. This course can help you develop a strong understanding of the biology of the human genome, which is essential for understanding the genetic basis of diseases and developing effective healthcare policies.
Veterinarian
Veterinarian
A Veterinarian cares for the health of animals. This course can help you understand the basics of genetics, which is essential for understanding the genetic basis of animal diseases and developing new treatments.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/zdi1of/udacity
Reading list
We've selected 17 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Tales from the Genome.
Save
Explores the personal stories and scientific breakthroughs behind the development of CRISPR gene editing technology.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of human molecular genetics. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of molecular biology to the latest advances in genetic research. The book is well-written and easy to understand, making it a good choice for students who want to learn more about this field.
Tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, an African American woman whose cells were used to create the first immortal cell line. The book powerful exploration of the ethics of medical research and the legacy of racism in America.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the human genome. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of genetics to the latest advances in genetic research. The book is well-written and easy to understand, making it a good choice for students who want to learn more about this field.
Explores the role of epigenetics in human health and disease. The book fascinating look at the latest research on this topic and its potential implications for our understanding of how our environment affects our genes.
Covers the genetic basis of human diseases, making it particularly relevant for the course's focus on individuals living with various genetic traits.
Examines the social and ethical implications of genomics, particularly in relation to race, identity, and reparations.
Introduces the basics of bioinformatics, which is essential for analyzing and interpreting genomic data.
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of genetics, including topics such as Mendelian inheritance, molecular genetics, and population genetics.
Save
Offers an insider's account of the Human Genome Project, providing historical context and insights into its impact on genomics.
This textbook is commonly used in academic settings to provide an introduction to genetic analysis. It covers the basics of genetics, including molecular biology, inheritance, and evolution. The book is well-written and easy to understand, making it a good choice for students who are new to the field of genetics.
Provides a broad overview of genomics, including topics such as genome sequencing, analysis, and the ethical implications of genetic information.
Provides background information on the fundamentals of genomics and its applications to human health and disease.
Presents statistical methods used in human genetics, which is beneficial for individuals interested in the statistical analysis of genetic data.
Serves as a valuable reference for background knowledge in molecular biology, which is essential for understanding the concepts discussed in the course.
Save
Provides a historical and cultural perspective on the concept of the gene and its influence on our understanding of ourselves.
Covers statistical methods used in genetic epidemiology, which could be beneficial for individuals interested in the statistical analysis of genetic data.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/zdi1of/udacity
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