This module is a core module taken by students studying Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Science, Forensic Science, and Pharmacology. The module introduces students to basic cell biology of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, molecular, organismal and population genetics, germ layers and basic tissue types in the human body, and to a variety of microorganisms. Core information is provided in lectures and supported by material on Canvas. Laboratory practicals give students the opportunity to learn a selection of current techniques used to study cells, tissues, chromosomes and microbes. The module provides a solid foundation for subsequent modules at levels 5 and 6 that expand knowledge in cell biology, anatomy, physiology, genetics and microbiology.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Core concepts in cell and molecular biology, focussing on genes, cells and tissues, are discussed in research-led lectures by the module team who will direct the students to pre-sessional and further reading and additional educational on-line resources available on Canvas to support their learning. The closing lectures on molecular techniques will also inform students about career possibilities in the molecular science jobs market and current technical competencies required. These lectures will emphasise employability skills and the importance of accessing the University careers service.
Students will undertake four laboratory practicals on microscopy, histology, cytogenetics and microbiology to enable them to develop practical skills in the correct use of microscopes, examining and studying chromosomes, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and tissues, interpreting and recording biological data, and build upon knowledge gained from lectures. Students will be prepared for each practical by lectures, in combination with complementary on-line resources.
Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) is scheduled throughout the module to enable students to practice application of information and extend their knowledge. These resources include video tutorials on microscopy, histological techniques and microbiology and on-line interactive tutorials and activities. Engagement by students with TEL sessions will be monitored via Canvas.
Overall, the blended learning approach adopted on this module encourages the expansion of knowledge in cell and molecular biology, tissues, microorganisms and associated techniques. The development of key skills, particularly self-awareness skills, in managing learning, communication, numeracy and literacy are facilitated. Valuable employability skills such as confidence building, identification of skills and competencies gained, self-reflection, awareness of career possibilities, the use of the careers service and giving and receiving feedback are embedded throughout the teaching, learning and assessment strategies in this module.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | Lectures and seminars (46 h) 4 x 3 hour practicals (12 h) Scheduled technology enhanced learning (21 h) | 79 |
| Guided independent study | Directed reading, use of video tutorials, interactive electronic study packages and formative question banks. | 221 |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
The module is summatively assessed through a portfolio of small practical MCQ tests (30%), an in-class essay assignment (30%) and an end-of-year examination (40%).
The portfolio of tests consists of three separate, short on-line tests (each worth 10%) of knowledge, techniques and outcomes relating to laboratory classes. A formative test of the first laboratory class allows students to familiarise themselves with the format of the summative tests and to assess their own progress with immediate feedback. Students are eligible to submit the assessments if they have attended the relevant practical sessions. These coursework assessments test the understanding of practical techniques, encourage further reading and provide an opportunity for reflection of skills acquisition. Individual electronic feedback will be supplied to each student after submission.
The in-class essay assignment requires students to answer short essays under examination conditions, the titles of which are given in advance. The essays are designed to test the understanding of the core concepts covered by pre-sessional reading, discussed in lectures and further developed in directed further reading. Answers are peer-marked with guidance from the lecturer who provides a marking scheme. Students gain an understanding of the depth of knowledge required for this stage of their degree and acquire experience in applying their knowledge and assess their progress in learning. Students benefit from this opportunity to develop their literacy skills in preparation for the end of module examinations and beyond.
The end of module examination (40%) will test student knowledge and understanding of module content that has not been assessed by the essay assignment..
Regular and detailed feedback is provided to students by formative assessments such as practice MCQ tests undertaken during lectures, and through an extensive range of formative question banks available on Canvas. This formative feedback will facilitate students to test their understanding of theoretical and practical concepts, organize their own learning, self-reflect on their progress and encourage regular revision for summative assessments. Post-examination generic feedback will be posted on Canvas and the module team will be available in term-time to give personal feedback to students on their examination performance.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) Demonstrate an understanding of the major cell components and discuss their functions in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. | Formal examination (S), essay assignment (S) and practice answers in lectures/TEL (F). |
| 2) Demonstrate an understanding of basic concepts in molecular, population and evolutionary genetics. | Formal examination (S), essay assignment (S) and practice answers/TEL (F). |
| 3) Perform simple calculations relating to inheritance and population genetics. | Formal examination (S), essay assignment (S) and practice answers/TEL (F). |
| 4) Display a basic knowledge of the early development and structure and functions of major tissue types in the human body. | Formal examination (S), practical MCQ portfolio (S), essay assignment (S) and practice answers/TEL (F). |
| 5) Recognize and discuss the characteristics of a variety of medically important microorganisms. | Formal examination (S), practical MCQ portfolio (S), essay assignment (S) and practice answers/TEL (F). |
| 6) Demonstrate a comprehension of selected current techniques in light microscopy, histology, cytogenetics, and microbiology. | Practical MCQ portfolio (S). |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Formal end-of-year examination | Written Exam | 40% |
| Essay assignment | Written Exam | 30% |
| Portfolio of on-line tests | Coursework | 30% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any major element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.
The current edition of the following:
Sadava, D., Hillis, D.M., Heller, H.C. and Berenbaum, M.R. Life: The Science of Biology. Tenth Edition. Sinauer Associates Inc. W.H. Freeman and Co.
Alberts, B., Bray, D., Hopkin, K., Johnson, A., Lewis, J., Raff, M., Roberts, K. and Walter, P. Essential Cell Biology. Fourth Edition. Garland Science.
Madigan, M.T., Martinko, J.M., Stahl, D.A. and Clark, D.P. Brock Biology of Microorganisms. Pearson.
Marieb, E.N. and Hoehn, K. Human Anatomy and Physiology. Pearson.
Nelson, D. and Cox, M. Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry. W.H. Freeman.
Russell, P.J. iGenetics: a Molecular Approach. Pearson.
Young, B., O'Dowd, G. and Woodford, P. Wheater's Functional Histology: a text and colour atlas. Churchill Livingstone.