BIOL260 Genetics (Experimental)
Department of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics: Biology
- I. Course Number and Title
- BIOL260 Genetics (Experimental)
- II. Number of Credits
- 4 credits
- III. Number of Instructional Minutes
- 4500
- IV. Prerequisites
- CHEM121 (C or better) and BIOL121 (C or better)
- Corequisites
- None
- V. Other Pertinent Information
- This is an experimental course. This is a laboratory course; a minimum number of laboratory activities must be completed by students. The modality and total number of lab activities will be determined during the experimental period. Proctored testing is required for this course.
- VI. Catalog Course Description
- Building on foundational biology and chemistry concepts, this course delves into genetics' core principles, including inheritance patterns, DNA structure and function, gene expression, and biotechnological applications. Integrating lectures and laboratory experiences, this course emphasizes critical thinking and application in genetics-related fields, preparing students for studies in advanced biological sciences.
- VII. Required Course Content and Direction
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Course Learning Goals
Students will:
- Describe the foundational principles of inheritance;
- Explain the structure, function, and replication processes of DNA and RNA, including key molecular events like mutation, transcription, translation, and regulation;
- Demonstrate proficiency in genetic analysis techniques;
- Construct and interpret tables and graphs to evaluate data from laboratory experiments, applying statistical or computational methods as appropriate.;
- Discuss the ethical, social, and environmental impacts of genetic research and biotechnological applications like GMOs; and
- Critically evaluate case studies and current research in genetics to understand the application of genetic technology in real-world contexts.
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Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities
- Mitosis and Meiosis
- Mendelian Genetics
- Extensions of Mendelian Genetics
- Mitochondrial inheritance
- Sex chromosomes
- Chromosomal abnormalities
- DNA structure, replication, and recombination
- DNA mutation and repair
- Gene expression: transcription and translation
- Gene regulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes
- Epigenetics and noncoding RNAs
- Genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics
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Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals
For each topic covered in the course, student performance related to the course learning goals will be evaluated by way of unit exams and hands-on graded lab projects. In addition, students' mastery of the subject matter may be further assessed by completion of major projects related to current genetics research. A comprehensive final exam will be used to evaluate students' level of proficiency in all of the course topics. -
Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Student:
A departmentally-selected textbook, laboratory manual, and Internet-based resources will be used in this course. Details on learning resources and reference materials will be provided by the instructor at the beginning of each course section.
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New: 05/2024