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 powerpoint presentation (724kb, rev: Apr 16, 2012)
Web Resources Microsoft Word (78kb, rev: Apr 16, 2012)
Additional Reading (51kb, rev: Apr 16, 2012)

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:

Midcontinental Region

Dana Abbey, Health Information Literacy Coordinator/Colorado, Health Information Literacy Coordinator/Colorado, Phone Number 1(303)724-2110

Middle Atlantic Region

Carrie Iwema, Information Specialist in Molecular Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Teaching for NN/LM MAR, Email Address iwema@pitt.edu

Pacific Northwest Region

Gail Kouame, Public Health Outreach Coordinator, Phone Number 1(206)221-3449

Pacific Southwest Region

Kelli Ham, Consumer Health and Technology Coordinator, Fax Number 1(310)825-5389, Phone Number 1(310)825-1984

Lori Tagawa, Community Outreach Coordinator, Email Address ltagawa@library.ucla.edu, Fax Number 310-825-5389, Phone Number 310-794-6572

South Central Region

Karen Vargas, Outreach and Evaluation Coordinator, Email Address karen.vargas@exch.library.tmc.edu, Phone Number 1(713)799-7198

Southeastern Atlantic Region

Terri Ottosen, Consumer Health Coordinator, Fax Number 1(410)706-0099, Phone Number 1(410)706-2855

Nancy Patterson, Community Outreach Coordinator, Phone Number 1(410)706-2855

Sheila Snow-Croft, Public Health Coordinator, Fax Number 1(410)706-0099, Phone Number 1(410)706-2855

Developer

Terri Ottosen is the Consumer Health Outreach Coordinator for the NN/LM Southeastern Atlantic Region.