Gene Screen Hack 1.2 + Redeem Codes

Gene Screen, produced by the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, is designed to be an introductory-level exploration of how human genetic disorders are inherited. The free app is divided into 3 different sections. In “Learn About Genetics,” the user is able to gain important background knowledge about genes and chromosomes, founder effect, a brief library of human recessive diseases, and some very basic information about the uses of genetic screening, particularly with Jewish genetic diseases. In “Inheritance Calculators,” the user can manipulate variables of a basic Punnett square to learn about genetic probability, deduce trends/patterns of recessive inheritance, and, once again, learn about Jewish disease prevalence compared to the world population. Lastly, “Map of Genetic Diseases” lets users peruse world regions to visualize what recessive diseases are most prevalent in that area.
The app is well-organized and uses visual tactics of section headings and app-within-app design to guide the learner through the modules. At the same time, a user is able to choose any topic and is not forced to go through all of the material. This allows a teacher to differentiate how to assign a project involving this app. For example, students struggling with the basic concepts could be guided/required to move through the Section 1 modules whereas more advanced students could jump right into the manipulatives. The app has no sound and no zoom capability, which can be difficult for students that have vision disabilities.
I think it’s a great way to let students choose a disease of interest; however, the list is highly focused on recessive disorders that are prevalent in Ashkenazi Jewish populations, which is limiting. I like the additional resources page that links to several well-known databases of information. Truthfully, when I first clicked on the resources page I was expecting to see teacher instructional materials or at least suggestions for classroom use. Many apps these days include guides of some sort so that a teacher is not starting from scratch when planning a lesson. I would say that the target population would be beginning genetics learners, most likely middle school or early high school age. Lastly, I think this is an app that could be used as part of a larger project-based learning unit. It provides some fundamental review to support more inquiry-driven activities in the classroom.

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An awesome educational app with plenty of resources.

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Deez nuts lol

I am a Molecular Biologist and parent of a 7th grader who is now learning about genetics and DNA in school. This app very helpful in explaining genetics and basic dominant/ recessive inheritance. I like the interactive features and the information about different conditions. It would also be great for adults who don't have a background in Biology and are interested in basic genetics. Well done!! Maybe you could add more genetics (not just dominant/recessive) and conditions. For example, add X-linked traits (like color blindness and ocular albinism) and semi- and co-dominance... Also, maybe you could explain how a condition could be caused by a mutation in more than one gene.

Hi

This is a great app for those who want a quick understanding of how the Punnett square works. Although, I thought it was obvious when I was taking bio but I would always get some answer wrong. The mating is the more helpful part of this app. Usually in test, when it came to genotypes, traits or diseases, knowing probability outcome can be tricky. It def helped me!

If you read the description it says the app was developed through support from a foundation for the prevention of genetic diseases that tend to run in ethnic Jewish populations. It's meant to help, not single out. There are foundations that work on inherited diseases in other populations, but they didn't sponsor the app or the research that went into it.