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Peer Review

The New Genetics

Reviewed:

Mar 31, 2016 by Biology
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Ratings

Overall Rating: 4.8 stars
Content Quality: 4.8 stars
Effectiveness: 4.5 stars
Ease of Use: 5.0 stars
Overview:

This science education booklet is just under 100 pages and provides basic level information about genetics. Topics include How Genes Work, RNA and DNA, Life's Genetic Tree, and 21st-Century Genetics. A glossary and crossword puzzle are included.
Type of Material:

Electronic Open Textbook
Recommended Uses:

Could be used as supplementary information when covering genetics in an intro biology or A&P course, or used to help students braintstorm topic ideas for papers or projects in related courses.
Technical Requirements:

PDF and EPUB versions available for downloading and printing.
Identify Major Learning Goals:

After reading the booklet, students will be able to identify how genes work, how understanding RNA & DNA helps us to understand biology, pharmacology, circadian rhythms, etc. Students will have an introductory understnading of related topics such as genetic testing, forensics, bioinformatics, biotechnology, and others.
Target Student Population:

Undergraduate biology, A&P, or genetics courses
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:

None

Content Quality

Rating:
Strengths:

  • Material is presented in clear, easy-to-understand language with compelling and illustrative graphics.
  • The booklet explains the science and implications, as well as provides "real life" examples and applications.
Concerns:

  • The booklet was last updated in 2010, and thus is a bit out of date at this point. For example, it does not discuss CRISPR or the newer 23 & me-type home genetics testing kits.

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating:
Strengths:

  • Presents materials in a logical sequence that builds on previously-covered material
  • Material promotes conceptual understanding
  • Activities throughout the text encourage reflection and analysis
  • Information provided helps students understand the relatedness of the topics
  • The glossary at the end is helpful for reviewing concepts
Concerns:

  • Material is basically text and images, which may not be very exciting for users who prefer animations
  • The materials, and the way they are presented, are not necessarily engaging, but still very straightforward
  • No direct way to assess student learning outcomes, as this is a reference material

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating:
Strengths:

  • The booklet can be used online, either in full or as individual chapters
  • Otherwise, it can be downloaded for free as an EPUB or PDF
  • Free hard copies are also available
  • Site is fast and intuitive
  • There is an "accessible version" of the interactive crossword puzzle at the end of the text
  • The booklet is visually appealing and easy to read
Concerns:

  • There were no concerns about ease of use at the time of this review
Other Issues and Comments:

While I could not find a specific copyright statement, this Web site is maintained by the NIGMS Office of Communications and Public Liaison. As a Federal Government web site it would normally be available for use with no restriction.
Creative Commons:
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