Genetics: Science and Society IL023 and IL123

Genetics: Science and Society

An IATL Interdisciplinary Module

Module Code

IL023 Level 5 (Intermediate)

IL123 Level 6 (Third year/Finalist)

Module Convenor

Professor Elena RivaLink opens in a new window

E.Riva@warwick.ac.uk

When/Where

Spring term

Date and time TBC

Assessment

Academic Writing Piece (2000 words) 50%

Student Devised Assessment (50%)

What is the module about?

Will we one day be able to edit our children’s DNA? What are "designer babies" and "saviour siblings," and how do they challenge our understanding of genetics and ethics?

Could genetic selection lead to a world without conditions such as Down’s syndrome? How do films such as GATTACA and Jurassic Park shape public perception of genetic science?

This module invites you to explore thought-provoking questions and navigate the complex, interdisciplinary world of human genetics. You will gain insight into the latest advancements in genetic technologies and examine their impact on society, politics, and culture.

Through discussions, case studies, and films, you will critically evaluate historical, ethical, and societal debates surrounding genetic technologies and reproductive genetics.

Experts from diverse fields, including Life Sciences, Medical Sciences, Sociology, History, and Film and Television Studies, will provide multiple perspectives on these important issues.

What makes this module unique is its holistic approach, cross-disciplinary nature, and innovative learning activities. You will develop the skills to explore your own learning interests and research in a more interdisciplinary and global way.

Most importantly, you will be at the heart of the learning process, actively engaging in discussions, problem-solving activities, and group projects that bring these critical topics to life.

Are you ready to explore the future of genetics and its impact on society?

Pre-requisites

If you are already familiar with the scientific aspects of this topic, this module offers a valuable opportunity to explore it from the perspectives of other disciplines. There are no pre-requisites; however, at the start of the module, you will receive support to refresh key knowledge from General Certificate of Secondary Education studies.

Students from a wide range of academic backgrounds have taken this module in previous years, making it a truly interdisciplinary experience.

What will the module cover?

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The first part of the session will be a lecture given by the subject expert with the second part being a workshop, led by the module leader(s) together with the disciplinary expert, to facilitate the learning experience of the students.
Indicative topics and themes covered on the module include:

Introduction to Genetics: Science & Society
Introduction to Prenatal Testing and Genetic Editing
History of Genetics
The Ethical Implications of Genetic Selection
Reprogenetics
Reproductive Genetics and Law
Genomics and Society
Genetic Age in Science Fiction Films

How will I be assessed?

- 2000 word academic writing piece. Traditional style essays, as well as essays that reflect scientific writing (i.e. scientific article style), will be welcome. (50%)

- Student Devised Assessment (SDA) Form of assessment method designed by you with the full support of the tutor whereby you will create a piece of work (an article, a short film, a talk, a play, a workshop, a painting, a podcast and so on) that offers a solution to a controversial topic or a question that has arisen during the module. You will be free to select your preferred topic/question and subsequently, you will undertake your own research utilising the methodologies and the holistic approach presented throughout the course. You must demonstrate and communicate the theories presented in the module in your piece. You will be given full tutor support both when planning your devised assessment and when bringing it to fruition. This will include some one-on-one time with a module tutor.(50%).

More information about assessment methods, can be found on our page: IATL Assessment MethodsLink opens in a new window

Explore the assessment work of previous Genetics cohorts as part of the IATL Assessment ExhibitionLink opens in a new window.

What skills will I develop?

Subject-Specific Skills

Apply interdisciplinary approaches and research methods to understand global topics such as genetics and explore solutions to complex ethical and societal issues.
Integrate this method of inquiry into your core discipline and potential research, enhancing your ability to tackle complex topics from multiple perspectives.
Develop the ability to identify and establish interdisciplinary connections across diverse fields, fostering a systems-thinking mindset.
Strengthen communication and collaboration skills, essential for academic and professional success.

Transferable Skills

Active listening – Engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives.
Complex problem-solving – Navigate ethical, scientific, and societal challenges.
Critical reflection – Evaluate information and arguments with depth and insight.
Interpersonal and communication skills – Express ideas clearly and work effectively with others.
Management of learning – Take ownership of your educational development.
Research skills – Gather, assess, and synthesise information from multiple sources.
Self-management and resilience – Adapt to challenges and develop independent learning strategies.
Teamwork – Collaborate effectively in group discussions and projects.

Learning Outcomes

See module catalogue for the learning outcomes.

How to register

Complete our online form to request your place. To request your place complete the IATL online form and select "Intercultural Communication in Theory and Practice"

Once IATL have confirmed you have been allocated a place, follow your home department's procedure to register.

IATL Institute for Advanced Teaching and Learning (IATL)