ATS2306 · Ethics, genetics and society

Overview

This unit investigates ethical issues raised by current and likely future developments in biotechnology and genetics. The unit examines ethical and social controversies surrounding the following topics: genetic engineering and 'enhancement' of human traits; genetic diagnosis and preimplantation and prenatal selection; genetic data; stem cell research; genetic modification of organisms; synthetic biology; and biological weapons.

Areas of study: Bioethics

Offerings

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Identify and discuss ethical and social issues arising from genetic technologies and related debates in bioethics
2. Analyse and critique key ethical perspectives on developments in human genetics and biotechnology;
3. Apply research, writing and reasoning skills to develop and communicate your own informed judgements about these ethical issues.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.