High school students get a taste of forensics

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/dna-workshop.jpg” caption=”Graduate student Abena Otchere explains the intricate steps in anazlying a DNA sample to local grade 11 high school student Sylvia Panczyk. Photo credit: Christine MacLean”]Many of us are familiar with crime shows on television analyzing DNA evidence to solve a case. But how many of us will ever have the opportunity to learn how forensic science works through a hands-on activity?

At today's Accelerated Student Workshop (ASW) event at McMaster University, more than 200 high school students, all of them top academic achievers who were chosen by their teachers to take part, traveled from Hamilton, Niagara, and the Toronto area to learn about DNA and other science-related activities.

Abena Otchere, a graduate student affiliated with the department of biology, ran the DNA Forensics workshop. Otchere had students take samples of DNA from their cheek cells to help them understand DNA forensics.

“We hope that students gain an appreciation of the various levels of knowledge that enable scientists to be involved in things such as solving crime by using DNA evidence,” said Otchere. “We want students to understand that science is a highly accessible field, and a field worth pursuing.”

During the workshop, Otchere was on the pathway of success with the students. Students eagerly answered questions about DNA and participated in the experiment that had been prepared. Students were required to swish water in their mouths while chewing on their cheeks to extract their own DNA, which was then mixed in a test tube. The DNA was mixed with shampoo, water, salt, and baking powder, all simple household ingredients. Rubbing alcohol was added to the mixture to separate the DNA from the other particles. Students then transferred their DNA to a vial to take home and show their parents and friends.

Otchere seemed to be pleased with the enthusiasm shown by the students.

“Our goal is to inspire them,” said Otchere. “Hopefully workshops like these do the trick. The future of science is bright and exciting!”

In addition to the DNA workshop, students were instructed in computers and software, how to use the global positioning system, and how computers are used to study the origins of species.