Insights into genetics and diseases through hands-on learning at UNSW

Year 12 Biology students extended their learning beyond the classroom by visiting the Museum of Human Disease at UNSW. While here they participated in workshops which explored case studies of common infectious and non-infectious diseases. The workshops also outlined the inheritance of characteristics resulting in genetic conditions, such as common vision disorders. The students were able to directly observe the impacts and consequences of disease on the human body as they viewed the vast collection of specimens, infographics and hands-on activities in the museum. This provided them with a tremendous opportunity to apply the content covered in class as well as investigate diseases of interest to them. Overall, the students found this a very valuable experience which helped them make meaningful connections between their learning and the broader context.

Here are some reflections from the students about the excursion:

‘Such an enlightening experience… I was able to see first-hand infectious/non-infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, melanoma and cancer and how they affect the human body.‘

‘Really enjoyed the activities as I was able to get a more in-depth understanding of diseases and epidemiology.‘

‘Great opportunity to deepen our understanding of the content learnt already and it also provided a foundation for the content we are going to learn about heredity and genetic mutations. The hands-on activities and presentations made it a very enjoyable and informative experience.‘

‘Allowed me to improve my problem-solving skills…allowing me to think deeper.‘

‘Great in helping us apply our knowledge from class to real life as we were looking at specimens that had diseases we have studied and we could see the effect of the diseases up close.‘

‘Allowed us to participate in interactive workshops and presentations on disease, heredity genetics, and look at the range of diseased specimens that the museum had to offer.‘

‘Gave us a unique, hands-on experience with the content we have been learning in Year 12 Biology.‘

Natasha Kempers
Head of Science