Course Overview

GenoX – Genomics and Forensic Science

Course Overview

Course Purpose

The GenoX Genomics and Forensic Science course is a high-school elective designed to introduce students to modern genetics through the real-world lens of forensic investigation. By combining molecular biology, human variation, and applied forensic methods, the course allows students to explore how DNA is used to identify individuals, analyse biological evidence, and solve complex scientific questions.

The course is built around the idea that genomics becomes more meaningful when students see how it is applied in authentic situations. Instead of learning DNA as an abstract molecule, students experience how genetic information is used in criminal investigations, medical research, and identity verification. This applied approach promotes curiosity, analytical thinking, and scientific literacy while remaining firmly grounded in core biology concepts.

What Students Learn

Throughout the course, students develop a strong foundation in:

• DNA structure and function
• Inheritance and genetic variation
• Molecular biology techniques
• Forensic science principles
• Scientific reasoning and evidence analysis
• Ethical and social implications of genetic data

Students move from basic genetic concepts to advanced forensic applications, gaining both theoretical understanding and practical insight into how DNA analysis works in professional settings.

Course Structure

The course is delivered across three structured semesters, each with a clear focus and progression of skills.

Semester 1 — Foundations of Genetics and Biology

Students begin by learning the biological principles that underpin all genomic science. Topics include:

• DNA structure and base pairing
• Genes, chromosomes, and genomes
• Transcription and translation
• Genetic inheritance
• Mutations and variation

These lessons build the scientific vocabulary and conceptual understanding needed to study genomics at a deeper level. Students learn how DNA stores information and how small changes in DNA lead to differences between individuals.

Semester 2 — Applied Forensic Biology

In the second semester, students apply their knowledge of genetics to forensic contexts. This includes:

• Biological evidence at crime scenes
• Presumptive and confirmatory tests
• DNA extraction and quantification
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
• Contamination control
• Fingerprint analysis
• Biometric identification

Students explore how DNA and physical evidence are collected, analyzed, and interpreted. They learn how forensic scientists prevent contamination, ensure accuracy, and evaluate the reliability of evidence. This semester emphasizes critical thinking and scientific integrity.

Semester 3 — Simulations and Capstone Investigation

The final semester is built around interactive simulation-based laboratory work and a capstone forensic case project.

Students complete five simulation labs that allow them to:

• Observe molecular processes inside the cell
• Visualize DNA separation through electrophoresis
• Perform PCR amplification
• Analyse DNA profiles
• Explore advanced sequencing and trait prediction

After completing the simulations, students undertake a capstone investigation in which they apply everything they have learned to solve a complex forensic case using provided datasets, DNA profiles, fingerprints, and contextual evidence.

This culminates in a final presentation where students explain their reasoning, interpret scientific evidence, and defend their conclusions.

Learning Approach

The course follows a scientific inquiry model, encouraging students to:

• Ask questions
• Analyse evidence
• Interpret data
• Draw conclusions
• Communicate findings

Rather than memorizing facts, students engage in reasoning, problem-solving, and evidence-based decision making — the same skills used by professional scientists and forensic analysts.

Use of Simulation-Based Learning

Instead of traditional physical laboratories, GenoX uses interactive virtual simulations to deliver laboratory experiences. These simulations allow students to:

• Visualize molecular processes
• Perform experimental steps safely
• Repeat procedures
• Observe outcomes in real time

This ensures consistency, safety, and accessibility while still providing high-quality scientific learning.

Assessment Philosophy

Students are assessed through:

• Conceptual understanding
• Data interpretation
• Written reasoning
• Project-based analysis
• Presentations and communication

The capstone investigation serves as the primary summative assessment, measuring students’ ability to integrate genomics, forensic science, and critical thinking.

Who the Course Is For?

This course is designed for Secondary Education / High School students who are interested in:

• Biology
• Medicine
• Forensic science
• Biotechnology
• STEM careers

No prior forensic experience is required. The course builds from foundational biology to advanced applications.

Why Forensic Science?

Forensics is used as a powerful educational context. Crime-scene scenarios, DNA profiling, and fingerprint analysis provide meaningful ways for students to see how genetics operates in the real world. This keeps learners engaged while reinforcing rigorous scientific understanding.

Outcome for Students

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Explain how DNA is structured and inherited
• Describe how DNA is analyzed
• Interpret forensic evidence
• Evaluate ethical questions about genetic data
• Communicate scientific conclusions

Most importantly, they will understand how genomics shapes modern science, medicine, and justice.

Curriculum Standards Alignment

Mapping of GenoX Forensic & Genomic Science learning outcomes to international science education frameworks