Educational Workshop Series: DNA, Genes and Chromosomes
From October to December 2025, the Croatian Natural History Museum will host a series of educational workshops dedicated to genetics, DNA, and inheritance. Through experiments, games, creative activities, and multimedia content, participants will explore the fascinating world of genetics in an engaging and accessible way.
Workshop Leader: Dr. Martina Podnar Lešić
Dates: October 21 – December 31, 2025
Location: Croatian Natural History Museum, Zagreb
🕵️♂️ DNA Detective
Participants will learn about DNA barcoding and its applications in food authentication and wildlife crime investigations.
Activities include:
- animated presentation on DNA
- simulated forensic investigation
- DNA extraction and PCR demonstration
- gene database searches
- educational worksheets and tasks
Target Group: 8th-grade pupils, first-year secondary school students, and final-year students
🎨 Let’s Play with DNA
A creative workshop designed for younger participants, introducing the basics of DNA through play and hands-on activities.
Activities include:
- animated presentation on DNA
- creation of a double-helix DNA bracelet
- colouring activities, crosswords, and educational games
Target Group: primary school pupils and students in grades 5–7
🧪 The DNA Molecule
This workshop explores the structure of DNA and the scientific methods used to study it.
Activities include:
- multimedia presentation
- banana DNA extraction experiment
- electrophoresis demonstration
- DNA-themed board games and puzzles
- creation of DNA models and bracelets
Target Group: upper primary and secondary school students
🧬 Genetics
Through games and interactive activities, participants will learn key concepts of genetics and inheritance.
Activities include:
- multimedia presentation
- introduction to DNA structure
- inheritance and mutation games
- karyotype assembly activities
- museum scavenger hunt using “Interesting Genes” cards
Target Group: 8th-grade pupils, first-year secondary school students, and final-year students
Note: Maximum 25 participants per workshop. Dates and times are arranged directly with the workshop leader.
Authors
Martina Podnar Lešić