2. Execute

Role of AR in Achieving Learning Objectives

Augmented Reality plays a central role in the Execute phase. Using applications such as MoleculAR and Genome AR, students interact with 3D models of DNA, genes, chromosomes, and proteins. These tools make abstract molecular structures visible and easier to understand (NHGRI, 2024).

With AR, students can:

• observe the DNA double helix in three dimensions
• explore how a mutation changes a gene or protein
• compare healthy and mutated genetic structures
• connect genetic changes to real genetic disorders

This type of spatial and visual interaction helps learners better understand how mutations can lead to disease (Wallis, 2018).

AR-Based Learning Activities

DNA Mutation Exploration (AR Activity)

Students use MoleculAR to explore a DNA model and observe how a mutation changes the genetic code. By comparing a normal gene with a mutated one, students can see how a small change in DNA may affect protein function.

Task for students:
●    Explore the DNA model in AR
●    Identify the location of the mutation
●    Discuss how the mutation could affect the body

This activity supports understanding of the relationship between DNA, proteins, and disease (NHGRI, 2024).

Inheritance Patterns in Families

Using Genome AR and simple family tree charts, students explore how genetic disorders are inherited. They trace dominant and recessive traits and predict the likelihood of a disorder appearing in future generations.

Task for students:

• Analyse a family tree
• Identify carriers and affected individuals
• Explain the inheritance pattern

This task helps students connect theoretical inheritance rules to real-life genetic conditions (Wallis, 2018).

Case Study: Diagnose the Disorder

Students are presented with a short patient scenario inside the Delightex environment. The case includes symptoms and basic genetic information related to a genetic disorder.

Example scenario:

A patient experiences breathing problems and frequent lung infections caused by a mutation in one gene.

Students:

• analyse the symptoms
• explore AR models of the affected gene or protein
• identify the most likely type of genetic disorder

Case-based learning encourages problem-solving and supports deeper understanding of genetic diseases (NHGRI, 2024).

Ethics in Action

Modern genetics also raises important ethical questions. During this phase, students explore short ethical scenarios related to genetic testing, data privacy, and responsible use of genetic information.

Discussion questions:

• Should everyone be tested for genetic disorders?
• Who should have access to genetic test results?
• How can genetic data be protected?

These discussions are linked to bioethical principles and help students reflect on the social impact of genetic technologies (Wallis, 2018; NHGRI, 2024).

Feedback and Support

Throughout the Execute phase, students receive feedback through:

• teacher-guided discussions
• peer feedback during group activities
• short reflection prompts inside Delightex

The focus of this phase is on understanding and application, rather than memorisation. By actively working with AR tools and real-life examples, students are prepared for the reflective tasks in the Enhance phase.

Global Relevance and Student Engagement

The learning activities in this unit reflect modern approaches already used in schools and science centres around the world. Interactive DNA and genetics applications are currently used in genetics education in countries such as Finland, the United States, and Japan, where digital and AR-based learning is integrated into science curricula (NHGRI, 2024).

Teachers report that student engagement increases when abstract biological concepts become visual and interactive. AR allows learners to move, explore, and manipulate models, which supports deeper conceptual understanding compared to traditional textbook-based learning (Wallis, 2018).

By using AR elements in this unit, students become active participants in scientific exploration rather than passive receivers of information. They do not only see genetic mutations but experience how changes in DNA can affect human health. This approach prepares students for informed discussions about modern medicine, genetics, and ethical decision-making in real-world contexts (NHGRI, 2024).