Beyond the Central Dogma: Bringing Epigenetics into the Classroom

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Molecular Biology
• Educational Science

Background:

• Epigenetics investigates how environmental factors and cellular signals alter DNA packaging and gene expression.
• Understanding epigenetics is crucial for grasping gene expression complexities and environmental influences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce epigenetics to high school and undergraduate students.
• To provide educators with a supplemental curriculum module for teaching epigenetics.

Main Methods:

• Development of a supplemental curriculum module by the Genetic Science Learning Center (GSLC).
• Inclusion of online and paper-based activities covering introductory and advanced epigenetics topics.
• Strategies for incorporating concepts like cell memory, epigenetic inheritance, nutrition, and behavior-epigenome connections.

Main Results:

• The GSLC epigenetics module has been utilized in educational settings.
• Student learning gains have been assessed.
• The module aligns with Next Generation Science Standards.

Conclusions:

• The GSLC epigenetics module effectively introduces complex epigenetic concepts to students.
• The curriculum facilitates understanding of environmental impacts on gene expression and related phenomena.
• The module supports science education standards and demonstrates measurable student learning outcomes.