discussion

DISCUSSION

Across the various majors we surveyed, only 20% of the students had never heard of gene editing. Most of the 80% who had had a  major under the category of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Those in STEM, for the majority had gone over it in their required classes. Of those that were not STEM majors, they had learned about it from the news, social media, and general education requirements here at the University of Massachusetts. Overall, the population at the University of Massachusetts Amherst has some familiarity on the topic of gene editing on genetic disorders or medical practices in general to form some opinions. Major choice may limit the amount of in depth knowledge someone may have on the topic, but  today’s media (news sources, facebook, instagram, etc.), personal interest and internet access does give the population a general understanding.