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A Case Study on Genome Privacy
This college classroom activity from Carleton College helps students understand more about the scientific and societal issues revolving around the SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism, which is a specific type of allele caused by a small genetic change or variation within a DNA sequence). The case study asks students to act as lobbyists (representing scientists, health and life insurers, and other interest groups) who support either passing or defeating the federal Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act, which mandates that genetic information be protected against misuse by health insurers and employers. To support their views, students first learn how SNPs are detected and used, and what ethical issues are involved. An associated lab entitled Human Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Determination is available online.
Genome Privacy
The easy availability of data from an individual's genome, including SNPs, raises ethical issues that are explored in the case study on this website.
Media: PDFProgram Director: Fernan Jaramillo, Ph.D.
Award Years: 1988, 1993, 1996, 2004, 2008
Summary: Carleton College is a private baccalaureate institution in Northfield, Minnesota. Its HHMI-funded initiatives include:
- The Carleton Interdisciplinary Science and Math Initiative, a long-term project that supports a broad array of multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary and collaborative activities between the science and mathematics departments;
- A Science Scholars workshop, held over winter break, to help students develop strong relationships with science faculty;
- A summer undergraduate research program, which gives students the chance to work with professors on authentic research problems in science and math; and
- The Freshman Interdepartmental Science Cohort Experience, which helps freshmen with high potential and interest in science gain research opportunities, skills for academic success and mentoring.