Level: 3
Unit type: Internal
Guided learning hours: 60
Unit in brief
Learners explore the scientific nature of human genetics and the role it plays in health and disorders, and how legislation and ethical challenges influence gene technologies.
Unit introduction
In order to work effectively in the health and social care sector, it is important to have a good understanding of how genetic science has helped our understanding of reproduction and gene production from one generation to the next. This knowledge will help you to fully appreciate the significant role that genetics play in development of personality, temperament, health, and physical and psychological growth.
In this unit, you will understand what genetics is and its importance to human health and development. You will examine foetal development from conception to birth, and how genes (nature) and the environment (nurture) play a significant role in determining heredity. You will understand the role of reproductive genetic technologies that have fundamentally opened up opportunities for those who have been unable to conceive, and consider the ethical challenges that such technologies present.
These activities will prepare you for a variety of careers in the health and social care sector, such as health science roles. This unit will form a good basis for you to move to higher education, as it will develop your research skills by helping you to think critically and your evaluative skills through data handling.
Learning aims
In this unit you will:
A. Understand genetics and its role in human inheritance from conception to birth
B. Examine the factors affecting pre- and post-natal development
C. Investigate how advances in science can contribute to understanding reproductive and gene technologies
D. Examine how legislation and ethical challenges influence the use of reproductive and gene technologies.
