6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
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Synopsis
This unit investigates ethical issues raised by current and likely future developments in biotechnology and genetics. The unit examines ethical controversy surrounding the following topics, outlining the latest research in each case: genetic engineering and 'enhancement' of human traits; preimplantation and prenatal genetic diagnosis and selection; therapeutic and reproductive cloning; stem cell research; genetic modification of organisms; synthetic biology; and biological weapons.
Outcomes
On successfully completing this unit, students will have: a familiarity with contemporary and historical debates about new technologies in bioethics; skills that enable them to think critically about some key ethical issues raised by current and future developments in biotechnology and genetics; and the ability to make informed judgements about those ethical issues.
Assessment
Within semester assessment: 65% + Exam: 35%
Workload requirements
Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.
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