Instructors
Dr. Laura Briggs, Women's
Studies, 114A Communication, phone: 621-3839
lbriggs@u.arizona.edu
Dr. Sue DeNise, Animal Science, 243 Shantz, phone: 621-1972
sdenise@ag.arizona.edu
Course web page: http://www.u.arizona.edu/~lbriggs/ws195A-2.html
Prerequisites: Freshman or sophomore standing
Objectives:
1) To explore the historical, social and political life of genes as
important mobilizers in contemporary culture.
2) To learn the biological precepts governing the science of genes.
3) To integrate understanding of this hybrid notion of a gene and how
it affects public policy, human health and everyday societal concerns.
Presentation format: Combination lecture, discusssion and group projects.
Field Trips or additional time requirements: No field trips.
Grading: Grades will assess how well you have met the learning objectives above, and the amount of effort you have put into mastering them.
20%--Attendance
You may have one unexcused absence, but thereafter must provide a doctor's
note or other written documentation.
30%--2 listserv postings of 200 words each
The first is due by February 3, the other is due by March 10. You may
either start off a thread or responding to one. Postings will be graded
for intelligibility, thoughtfulness, and the degree to which they are informed
by class discussion and readings.
20%--Class participation
30%--Group project on differing positions on cloning.
Readings: The book for this course is Ruth Hubbard, Exploding the Gene Myth, available at UA Bookstore.
Special Needs: Students needing special accommodations or special
services should contact the
Learning Disabilities Program/S.A.L.T., Old Main Building, Room 117,
621-1242 and/or The Center for Disability Related Resources, Second and
Cherry Streets, 621-5227. The nees for specialized services must be documented,
verified by one of these UA units, and presented to us before the end of
the second week of class. We will do everything we can to enhance your
learning experience.
Academic Integrity: Students are encouraged to share intellectual
views and discuss freely the
principles and applications of the course materials. We seek to create
a learning environment in which any viewpoint can be explored, and all
course members treat each other with respect. This course operates under
the UA academic code.
Course Withdrawal: Students withdrawing from this course must
notify the instructors prior to
nonattendance in classes and execute drop or withdrawal procedures
in accordance with the UA General Catalog. Any student failing to attend
class in two or more successive classes is subject to automatic withdrawal
if arraingements have not been made between student and instructors.
Incomplete Policy: Any incomplete grade given must be verified
with a written agreement with the student which specifies the work to be
done and a timetable of completion.
SYLLABUS
Jan. 13 Introduction, The history of the science of genetics
Jan. 20 Eugenics: Briggs
Reading: Chapters 1 & 2 from Hubbard
Jan. 27 The science of genes: DeNise
Reading: Chapters 4 & 5 from Hubbard
Feb. 3 The science of genes II: DeNise
Reading: Chapters 6 & 7 & afterward from Hubbard
Feb. 10 Laboratory Genetics: DeNise
DeNise will supply readings
Feb. 17 Public Policy and the Human Genome
Project: Briggs
Reading: Chapter 8 Hubbard
Feb. 24 Genetic Screening--Reproductive Technology,
School, Work: Briggs
Reading: Chapter 3 &
10, Hubbard
March 3 Crime, DNA, and the OJ Trial: Briggs
Reading: Chapter 11, Hubbard
March 10 Who Owns this Data? Corporate funding
and Genetics: DeNise
Reading: Chapter 9, Hubbard
Spring Break
March 24 Cloning: Defining the Positions
Reading: Conclusion, Hubbard
March 31 Cloning: Research
Meet at the science library
computer lab
April 7 Cloning: What
is possible?
Readings TBA
April 14 Cloning: What is ethical?
Readings TBA
April 21 Discussion: Presentation of Initial Positions
April 28 Discussion: Dialogue
May 5 Discussion: Conclusions