Fun with DNA Winter Camp
Practice-driven learning pattern:A series of hands-on experiments throughout the program
Experience modern lab environment and use state-of-the-art equipment
Receive Certificate of Completion upon successful completion of the program
Visit American landmarks and learn on the go
Introduction
Cold Spring Harbor Laborator Introduction
Founded in 1890, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) has shaped contemporary biomedical research and education with programs in cancer, neuroscience, plant biology, and quantitative biology. Home to eight Nobel Prize winners, the private, not-for-profit Laboratory employs 1,100 people including 600 scientists, students, and technicians. The Meetings & Courses Program hosts more than 12,000 scientists from around the world each year. The Laboratory's education arm also includes an academic publishing house, a graduate school, and the DNA Learning Center (DNALC).
DNA Learning Center Introduction
In 1988, CSHL established the DNALC as the world’s first science center devoted entirely to public genetics education, and now operates facilities in Cold Spring Harbor, Brooklyn, Harlem, and Sleepy Hollow. The DNALC popularized several methods for delivering genetics instruction, including student laboratory field trips and summer camps, educator workshops, biotechnology kits, laboratory textbooks, equipment sharing consortia, student DNA sequencing, educational interfaces to bioinformatics tools, and multimedia learning materials for biology education.
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Flagship DNALC
DNALC- NYC (venue of the program)
Laboratory classroom
Program Introduction
This program is led by experienced educators and consists of a series of experimental activities, including microscopy with compound and stereo microscopes, modeling DNA structure, DNA extraction, and genetic engineering. Through this program, students will learn about basic biological concepts and build an understanding of scientific research methodologies. They will not only gain an understanding of cutting-edge technologies, but also experience the laboratory training environment of students in the U.S. Participation will stimulate their interest in the field of life sciences, cultivate innovative and critical thinking, and lay a solid foundation for future scientific research and exploration.Why us
1. Practice-driven learning pattern:A series of hands-on experiments throughout the program
Different from the traditional lectured-based teaching model, the whole learning process is based on the hands-on experiments in the labs. This enables students to experience scientific techniques directly, thus deepening understanding and enhancing the ability to solve practical problems.
2. Experience modern lab environment and use state-of-the-art equipment
The DNALC laboratories are equipped with the same equipment used by research scientists. Students will explore the world of molecular biology using researchgrade microscopes and micropipettes, while implementing laboratory techniques to culture microbes, isolate DNA from cells, and transform bacteria through genetic engineering. Learning science though performing experiments, they will build their genetic literacy and be better prepared for future advanced coursework in the life sciences.
3. Receive certificate of completion upon successful completion of the program
Participants who successfully complete all requirements of the program will receive a Certificate of Completion issued by the DNALC. The experience at a world-class laboratory will be a strong testament to their interest in science and exposure to advanced techniques, and provide a competitive edge in future study abroad applications.
4. Visit American landmarks and learn on the go
Students will have the opportunity to visit iconic American landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and the Charging Bull. They will also tour the campus of a notable Ivy League University in Manhattan, Columbia University, to experience the charm of a top university. The program emphasizes the parallel learning pattern of both curricular and extracurricular activities, igniting their curiosity about exploration.
Sample Schedule
*The program schedule is subject to change. If unexpected situations occur, adjustments will be made to equivalent locations, ensuring the quality of the tour remains unaffected.
9:30-12:00 |
13:00-15:00 |
15:00-18:00 |
|
DAY1 | Arrival and hotel check-in | ||
DAY2 | American landmarks tour:Statue of Liberty - Ellis Island Immigration Museum - Wall Street - Ground Zero | ||
DAY3 | Introductions
● LAB: Build models to understand cellular components and functions ● DISCUSSION:Cell structure, function relationship ● PRE LAB:Biodiversity and Taxonomy ● LAB:Use compound microscopes to observe different cell types |
● PRE LAB:DNA Structure and Function
● LAB:Build 3-D models showing the DNA double helix, and understand DNA replication ● DISCUSSION:Why is understanding DNA structure so important? |
University campus tour:
Walk into Columbia University and explore the academic and student life here |
DAY4 | ● PRE LAB:The Central Dogma of genetics
● LAB:Build models that show RNA transcription and translation ● LAB:Use stereo microscopes to view mutant flies and worms ● DISCUSSION:How do changes in DNA affect and organism, and why are they important? |
● PRE LAB:Gregor Mendel, the “Father of Genetics”
● LAB:Observe patterns of heredity in Maize, and use Punnett squares to explain observations ● LAB:Use Punnett squares to predict genotypes and phenotypes of a fictitious creature, then build it ● DISCUSSION:How are variations in traits an advantage in populations? |
Museum Study:
In the American Museum of Natural History, get a close-up look at dinosaur fossils, precious minerals, and more |
DAY5 | ● LAB: Examine your own traits, and perform a "population study" of the class to explore trait variations
● LAB:Extract DNA from plant and animal cells. |
● PRE LAB:Infectious Disease
● LAB:Infect harmless bacteria with a bacteriophage virus to observe the viral "life cycle" in a Petri dish ● LAB:Perform an antibiotic sensitivity test to identify antibiotic resistance ● DISCUSSION:How do bacteria become resistant to antibiotics? |
Museum Study:
Participate in interactive exhibitions at the New York Hall of Science, delving into various scientific principles, such as 3D printing, outer space theories and robotics |
DAY6 | ● PRE LAB:Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering
● LAB:Genetically engineer bacteria with a gene for fluorescence |
● COMPUTER LAB:Use bioinformatic tools to compare DNA sequences and solve the mystery of the Romanovs, the last royal family of Russia
● DISCUSSION:Careers in DNA science |
University campus tour:
wander around the wallless and creative campus of New York University |
DAY7 | ● PRE LAB:The scientific method
● LAB:Choose a variable in the DNA extraction lab and perform a controlled experiment |
New York City Exploration:
● Roam around Times Square and feel the urban pulse of New York ● Rise up to the Top of the Rock, overlooking the spectacular city skyline |
|
DAY8 | Departure |
Information
Location:
New York, USAGrade:
limited to grade 7-8 studentsDate:
February 1st - February 8th, 2025Requirements:
Fee:
- Include:Tuition, hotel accommodation (twin room), breakfast, excursion fees, ASEEDER group leader service fee, bus fee (airport transfer, daily commute and New York city tour), insurance, and learning materials.
- Exclude:Lunch and dinner, transportation costs to and from the place of departure (Beijing/Shanghai/Shenzhen/ Hong Kong). You can use a third-party service or AESSDER's unified service. Please confirm with the consultant before purchasing tickets. US visa fee and visa service fee: (ASEEDER VIP visa service ensures successful visa approval; in case of visa refusal, all visa and program fees will be refunded without any loss).