Debate Chamber

Genetics Masterclass

October 17th and repeated November 14th • ages 15-18 • University of London Union

Genetics has gripped the popular imagination like no other branch of medicine in recent years. High-flown metaphors give voice to emotional responses, whether its dizzy excitement at ‘cracking the code of life’ or horror at ‘playing God’. The Genetics Masterclass is a day-long course for anyone burning to explore the real issues at stake and separate fact from fiction.

During the course you will learn how mutations occur, how they are passed between generation and how they can be treated, using case studies of Huntingdon’s, Parkinson’s and Down syndrome. You will examine the options for parents with genetic diseases and what doctors can do to help. You will trace the history of genetics from its discovery to the race to decode the human genome. You will discover and the exciting potential of this research, and debate profound and urgent moral questions surrounding access to and ownership of genetic information.

Course Programme

Topics covered will include:

  • Genetic mutations – how they occur, and how they spread in population
  • A brief history of genetics
  • Case study exercises on the major genetic diseases – causes, diagnosis and treatment
  • Families, genetic diseases and heredity
  • How can you patent a gene?
  • How dangerous is a DNA database ?

Book a place

The fee for the Genetics Masterclass is £85. If the Genetics Masterclass is booked together with any other Medical Masterclasses the costs are as follows: two classes – £160, three classes – £240, four classes – £300, five classes – £350, or all six classes – £390.

Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Debate Chamber offers a limited number of full and partial bursaries for students who would otherwise have difficulty attending. To book a place please email info@debatechamber.com, call 0845 519 4827 or use the form below.

If you are a teacher interested in holding a Debate Chamber medicine or science event at your school please click here.

Booking

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We will contact you soon to confirm your registration (Please contact info@debatechamber.com if you have any questions)