Overview
Genetics Otago aims to provide quality, accessible information and resources to school students and teachers. Our scientists are keen to share their expertise with the aim of encouraging and helping talented young New Zealanders to consider science as a career.
If you would like one of our researchers vist your school, or you would like to bring a group of students to the University for a genetics workshop, please contact Publicity and Administration Manager:
Sophia McKay
Tel 64 3 479 7954
Email sophia.mckay@otago.ac.nz
High School Biology website
The University of Otago's High School Biology website is a great resource for secondary school students.
It aims to supplement textbooks and teaching for NCEA Biology.
Hands-On Science programme
The Genetics Hands-on Science Programme as part of the University of Otago's Hands-On Science programme demonstrates activities that our scientists are involved in, in a friendly and interactive environment.
Offered to Year 12 and 13 students, the 2014 Genetics Hands-On Science project will have 3 main threads, all related to modern genetics:
- A simple gene cloning experiment
- Crime-solving using forensic analysis
- The analysis of fruit fly mutations
Students will also learn about ethics surrounding genetics—including eugenics and cousin marriage—and will learn about the interesting research their fantastic demonstrators carry out!
The next Hands-On Science workshops will be held in January 2014.
For further information, Please contact the Genetics Hands-On Science Co-ordinator Dr Gillian MacKay:
Tel 64 3 479 7937
Email gillian.mackay@otago.ac.nz
Teaching resources for schools
In close consultation with the Director of Genetics Otago, Associate Professor Peter Dearden, our teaching resources have been developed by senior high school teacher, Praneeta Ramsay.
Resources are available for 3 different age groups:
- Junior (years 1–6)
- Intermediate (years 7–10)
- Secondary (Years 11–13)
