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Published on: February 7, 2025
Teaching at the interface between genetics and law
1Department of Biological Sciences, Union College, Schenectady, NY 12308, USA.
Summary
A new "Genetics and the Law" course integrates genetic principles with legal applications. This interdisciplinary approach explores how genetic discoveries inform judicial actions and legal decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Interdisciplinary studies
- Genetics
- Law
Background:
- Traditional genetics courses often lack legal application context.
- The legal system increasingly utilizes genetic evidence.
- There is a need for accessible education on genetics in law.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development and implementation of a novel "Genetics and the Law" course.
- To highlight the intersection of genetic science and legal practice.
- To present pedagogical methods and challenges in teaching this interdisciplinary subject.
Main Methods:
- A hybrid course structure combining core genetics with legal applications.
- Targeted curriculum design focusing on judicial use of genetic discoveries.
- Open enrollment for non-science majors within a liberal arts framework.
Main Results:
- Successful offering of the "Genetics and the Law" course at Union College.
- Demonstrated student engagement with the interface of genetics and legal decision-making.
- Identified challenges in student recruitment and course design.
Conclusions:
- The "Genetics and the Law" course effectively bridges scientific and legal disciplines.
- Such interdisciplinary courses are valuable for liberal arts education and science credit requirements.
- Further development is needed to address challenges in course delivery and student accessibility.
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