Card of the learning path

 
General topic of the learning path
 
 Human Genome Project and Genomic Medicine
Specific name of the learning unit
 
 Understanding Genetic Disorders – From DNA to Disease
Age of the target users

14-18 years
Requirements for the learner Basic understanding of DNA and inheritance
Ability to use a mobile phone or tablet
Interest in health, science, and real-life problems
Willingness to discuss ethical questions
Description of the learning unit This learning unit helps students understand genetic disorders in a clear and engaging way. Learners explore how changes in DNA (mutations) can lead to disease, how genetic disorders are inherited, and how modern medicine identifies and manages them. The unit is built around Delightex Augmented Reality (AR) environments, where students interact with 3D models of DNA, genes, chromosomes, and proteins. Abstract genetic concepts become easier to understand through visual and hands-on exploration. Instead of traditional quizzes, assessment is integrated into AR-based tasks, group discussions, and reflection activities carried out inside Delightex. Ethical issues such as genetic testing, data privacy, and responsibility in medicine are addressed throughout the unit, encouraging critical thinking and informed discussion.
Subject: Parties involved Biology teachers, Students, AR / ICT coordinators, Healthcare professionals (e.g. genetic counsellors), School technical support staff
Keywords DNA, mutation, genetic disorder, chromosome, inheritance, genetic testing, AR in education, bioethics, personalised medicine
Key qualifications, skills and knowledge that can be acquired Students will develop: a clear understanding of how genes and mutations can cause disease, the ability to distinguish between different types of genetic disorders, practical experience using AR tools to visualise DNA, genes, and proteins, basic bioethical reasoning related to genetic testing and health data, critical thinking and communication skills through group work and discussion, digital skills through the use of AR and interactive learning technologies
Resources and didactic aids used Chapter texts and figures based on NHGRI resources and Wallis (2018)
Augmented Reality applications: MoleculAR, Genome AR
Printable case studies and reflection tasks
Interactive worksheets and family tree charts
Tablets or projectors for AR activities
Classroom posters summarising types of genetic disorders
Assessment criteria and evaluation Student learning is assessed through:
- successful completion of AR-based tasks (e.g. identifying gene mutations)
- clear and logical participation in group discussions on diagnosis and ethics
- short reflective writing on the role of genomics in healthcare
- final group or individual presentation using AR visualisations (e.g. protein models or inheritance patterns)
- a short quiz checking understanding of genetic disorder types and testing methods