Genomics education for high school and undergraduate students

Providing genomics education for high school and college students is a priority for the Hawai'i Genetics Program (HGP). Since 2005, the HGP has surveyed attendees at educational outreach presentations with local high school (N=280) and undergraduate (N=243) students. The surveys assessed demographics, previous genetics coursework, awareness of genetic counseling as a career, and responses to ethically complex situations involving genetics. As was expected given Hawai'i's diverse cultural mixture, large proportions of participants reported Hawaiian, Filipino, Caucasian, Japanese, Portuguese, and/or Chinese ethnicity. The proportion of high school students reporting no previous genetics education has decreased from 2005 to 2012 (71% and 56%, respectively). Conversely, fewer 2005 undergraduates (11%) than 2012 undergraduates (34%) reported no previous genetics education. A majority (74%) of high school students had not heard of genetic counseling/counselor prior to outreach; after outreach, 41% reported considering a career in genetic counseling. Undergraduates were asked for their reactions if an employer wanted them to take a genetic test. “No” responses increased from pre- outreach (16%) to post-outreach (33%). Undergraduates were asked if a doctor should share patients' medical information with relatives. “No” responses increased from pre- outreach (54%) to post-outreach (62%). Survey results highlight educational topics for the HGP's future outreach and indicate that more genetics education at the high school level may be ideal. The HGP continues to provide genetics education to high school and undergraduate students with the goal of increasing genetics exposure and knowledge, and generating informed thought about potential associated ethical issues.