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Peer Review

What is CRISPR-Cas9?

Reviewed:
Jan 27, 2020 by Biology
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Ratings

Overall Rating: 5.0 stars
Content Quality: 5.0 stars
Effectiveness: 5.0 stars
Ease of Use: 5.0 stars
Overview:

This fact page from yourgenome.org gives a quick overview of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing tool.  The information is written at a level that is easy to understand even for those users with little background in molecular biology.  The fact page introduces the concept, as well as its development and potential uses of this emerging biotechnology.  This site could be used as background material for a lesson on gene editing tools or topics in bioethics.

Type of Material:

Tutorial

Recommended Uses:

Homework or in-class to supplement instruction

Technical Requirements:

Accessible with most current browser

Identify Major Learning Goals:
  • Users will learn about the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing tool including what it is, how it was developed and potential applications for its use.
Target Student Population:

High School, College General Ed, College Lower Division, College Upper Division

Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:

Knowledge of biology vocabulary would be helpful but not necessary

Content Quality

Rating:
Strengths:
  • Information is concise and easy to understand
  • Graphics are informative and clearly labeled
  • Key terms are highlighted in the text and a definition will pop up if you move the cursor over the term.
Concerns:
  • Links to more information should be provided for those users that want a more comprehenisve understanding of this tool.

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating:
Strengths:
  • The simplicity of the presentation makes this resource ideal for introducing the concept to an audience that may not have heard of the concept before.
  • The content is basic enough to be understood by a variety of audiences
  • A glossary is included for key terms
  • Could be used to complement lessons on several different topics including gene editing, DNA repair mechanisms, biotechnology, and bioethics
  • Provides clear illustrations of the steps involved in the process
Concerns:

None.

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating:
Strengths:
  • Easy to use
  • Graphics are visually appealing
  • Includes copyright information CC-BY license
Concerns:

None

Other Issues and Comments:

This is an excellent resource for introducing the concept of gene editing using CRISPR-Cas9.

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