Unit Navigation and Essential Question

How to Navigate this Unit

This unit has a number of different sections. An "Essential Question" is provided at the beginning; the idea is for you to bear this question in mind while you're going through all the material in this unit. The "Background" section provides an introduction to some of the key concerns in terms of privacy and consent presented by advances in genomic technology and obtaining, using and storing genetic data.  The "Selected Issues In Depth" section examines some of these issues more closely, with a TED talk on genomics and privacy (which expresses serious concerns about privacy issues) and clips from speakers who appear somewhat less concerned about these issues. The readings required and recommended to support this unit are available in the "Readings" folder. The Discussion section on genetic privacy and consent will be opened for you and your fellow students at the determined date for discussion in this section. There is also an assessed Case Study on genetic privacy, specifically on the controversy over HeLa cells. We have also provided an "Additional Resources" section, with links to other relevant information on genetic privacy and consent, including articles and websites.  

Unit 7 Essential Question

What is "genetic privacy" and why should we be concerned about it? What is it that we need to protect and from whom?

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