Choreographing Genomics

Catalog description

This course uses postmodern dance to model biological processes. It is an introductory biology course for non-majors studies in the biological science of molecular genome information through readings, quantitative assignments, movement exercises and artistic lenses. Students explore a detailed examination of heredity and cancer with a focus on contributions of DNA. Students are expected to articulate gene information flow through problem solving, written assignments, oral contributions, and movement forms. Topics covered include the definition of a gene, recombination of genes, the central dogma of genetic flow in a biological system, the 1:1 Pair Rule (Chargaff’s rules), DNA sequencing, functional genomics and the relationships of genes to cancer and heredity, as well as ethical issues in medicine.Each student is in charge of their own body and must recognize that they will have to use their body for assignments and in class participation work.Students will be required to talk and move in class (comfortable clothes, flat shoes or bare feet, and a yoga mat are required).Students will have reflective assignments that include written work.Students will be required to develop visual and movement-based models.