'Hands-on' Genetics Workshops
This workshop gives post-16 students a chance to use research-quality equipment to analyse their own DNA. It has been running for the last three years and is growing in popularity.
The central part of this workshop is spent extracting DNA from cells, running the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and then visualising DNA on an electrophoresis gel. The practical work is framed around a series of interactive explanations, quizzes and discussion activities. At the end of the workshop, students can see their DNA in a band on the gel, which brings the day to a satisfying end.
Students setting up the tanks for their DNA samples
This day workshop offers an exciting opportunity to learn about PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and other important techniques in molecular genetics. The workshop includes:
- Extracting DNA from cheek cells
- Setting up PCR on this DNA sample
- Running electrophoresis to visualise the results of PCR
- Analysing and interpreting the results
- Learning about the medical applications of these techniques
- Discussing some of the associated social and ethical issues.
This workshop is heavily subscribed each year and we received extremely positive feedback from both the students and teachers. The students clearly enjoy the opportunity to try advanced techniques themselves and discuss some challenging dilemmas about how these technologies are used.
The workshop is delivered by members of the Nowgen team and researchers from local Universities who share their experiences from research and clinical practice. They teach in the state-of-the-art laboratory within the Nowgen Centre.
Comments from teachers:
“Excellent – innovative, interactive and kept them busy – Ofsted would have been impressed!”
“Excellent organisation. Spot on to AQA ‘A’ spec. contents. Pitched at right level. Practical work very clearly explained. Excellent visual resources. Good pace of day. Kate and Mark created a very welcoming and supportive environment.”
