ABCs of DNA: Unraveling the Mystery of Genetics Information for Consumers
Abstract
Consumers need access to information and resources about genetic information in a manner that is understandable. Librarians working with the public need to be aware of the issues surrounding genetics and resources to assist patrons in locating and evaluating sometimes complex and confusing information. This class explores basic concepts such as genes and chromosomes and offers an overview of genetic disorders, genetic testing, genetic counseling, and the Human Genome Project. Ethical and legal issues associated with genetic disorders will be covered with regard to privacy, discrimination, and potential legislative impact on medicine and society. A variety of reliable health information resources will be demonstrated, including, but not limited to: Genetics Home Reference, ClinicalTrials.gov, NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders), and MedlinePlus. This 4-hour hands-on class is intended for consumers, public librarians, and health sciences librarians who work with the public.
Course Materials
Course Agenda
Course Powerpoint
Presentation (423kb,
rev: Jan 24, 2008)
Course Script (89kb,
rev: Apr 16, 2007)
Web Resources
Additional Reading
Continuing Education
Upon successful completion of this class, each participant will receive 4 hours of continuing education credit awarded by the Medical Library Association. Certificates will be delivered through the mail at a later date.
Instructors:
Dana Abbey, Consumer Health and Colorado Liaison, dana.abbey@ucdenver.edu, 303-724-2110
Siobhan Champ-Blackwell, Community Outreach Liaison, siobhan@creighton.edu, 402-280-4156
Arpita Bose, Acting Associate Director; Outreach and Communications Coordinator, arpita.bose@med.nyu.edu, 212-263-4176
Michelle Eberle, Consumer Health Information Coordinator, Michelle.Eberle@umassmed.edu, 508-856-2435
Gail Kouame, Consumer Health Coordinator, gmarie@u.washington.edu, 206-221-3449
Kelli Ham, Consumer Health Coordinator, kkham@library.ucla.edu, 310-825-1984
Michelle Malizia, Associate Director, michelle.malizia@exch.library.tmc.edu, 713-799-7880
Ruicha Mishra, Health Professionals Outreach Coordinator, ruicha.mishra@exch.library.tmc.edu, 713-799-7182
Karen Vargas, Consumer Health Outreach Coordinator, karen.vargas@exch.library.tmc.edu, 713-799-7198
Mandy Bayer Meloy, Community Outreach Coordinator, mbayerme@hshsl.umaryland.edu, 410-706-2855
Terri Ottosen, Consumer Health Coordinator, tottosen@hshsl.umaryland.edu, 410-706-2855
Sheila Snow-Croft, Outreach Education Coordinator, ssnowcro@hshsl.umaryland.edu, 410-706-2855
Developer
Terri Ottosen is the Consumer Health Outreach Coordinator for the NN/LM Southeastern Atlantic Region.