A 10-class online course to learn the basics of biotechnology and genetic engineering!
This biotechnology class will help you to discover what biotechnology is, and how to use it to make new and exciting things. You’ll even try your hand at genetic engineering, no prior knowledge necessary!
Already, biotechnology affects more than a billion people every year and is a core part of our society. Yet, only a small fraction of the population understands and can use it to help solve the world’s biggest problems; from fuel to food to medicine, all the way to new sustainable, and exciting materials.
Whether you are looking to explore the potential of biotechnology as a maker, wanting to see if a career path in biotechnology is right for you, or even gain some biotechnology teaching skills yourself, this course will help you reach your goal! Each student will learn the fundamentals of biotechnology and apply them in their own hands-on experiments using the class materials. From making bio-art to engineering bacteria with the DNA from sea creatures to seeing DNA in real life, you’ll have the chance to ask your questions, problem-solve and discuss biotechnology applications, ethics and impacts. Join this class to complete your Zero to Genetic Engineering Hero learning Journey alongside your peers!
As part of this class, learners will have the chance to flex their existing making skills, from programming to crafting, by building their own incubator, improving on the designs, and exploring the world of bio-electronics and lab equipment as part of an optional personal project.
Class Overview (subject to change to include discussions, lines of questioning from participants, and project reviews.)
Class 1 |
What is Biotechnology? |
Class 2 |
DNA, The Blueprint of Life! Hands-on activity: DNA extraction Experiment |
Class 3 |
Biosafety, Responsible Science & You! |
Class 4 |
Microorganisms for Biotechnology: Part 1 Hands-on Activity: Part 1 of the Canvas Kit Experiment. |
Class 5 |
Microorganisms For Biotechnology: Part 2 Hands-on Activity: Part 2 of the Canvas Kit Experiment. |
Class 6 |
Genetic Engineering: Microfacturing Step 1 Hands-on Activity: Canvas Kit Results and Engineer-it Kit Experiment Part 1 |
Class 7 |
Genetic Engineering: Microfacturing Step 2 Hands-on Activity: Engineer-it Kit Experiment Part 2 |
Class 8 |
Genetic Engineering: Microfacturing Step 3 Hands-on Activity: Engineer-it Kit Experiment Part 3 |
Class 9 |
Genetic Engineering: Hands-on Activity: Engineer-it Kit Experiment Results and Inactivation Procedure |
Class 10 |
Biotechnology & you – Ask a scientist What’s next? |