This module is a core requirement for students taking Biochemistry, Biological Sciences (Environmental Biology; Medical Biology; Genetics and Molecular Biology), Medical Biochemistry, and Pharmacology.
The main features of this module are to provide you with insights into the scientific basis of recent technological advances in biomolecular science through selected examples of contemporary scientific research and their impact on society. It will built on key knowledge consolidated at levels 5 and 6 to demonstrate the application of theory to current research, developments in bioindustry and the effect of advancements on society. The scientific areas selected are designed to stimulate topical debate and are blended as a series of lectures, seminars, tutorials and practicals. The interaction of science and the media, public engagement, and how these can guide scientific policy will also be discussed together with the challenges facing today's bioindustry including the role of intellectual property rights, bioethics and enterprise. Employability and enterprise are embedded to develop your scientific and professional skills.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
This synoptic module is delivered through a variety of lectures, seminars, tutorials, directed reading, blended learning and practical laboratory sessions; and not only builds on but consolidates key knowledge gained at levels 5 and 6. Lectures are designed to introduce students to the key features of each topic and to lay the preparatory ground for the application of knowledge. Research seminars provide students with first-hand experience from invited principal investigators on the direct application of research. Expanded discussion via the group tutorials will allow students to clarify issues arising, and to gain feed-forward experience, from formative-based assessments. The practical laboratory sessions provide students with an environment to develop and refine core practical skills and to develop their understanding through the application of knowledge to the practical environment. Independent learning skills are developed through directed reading and are necessary to achieve the learning outcomes. Throughout the module emphasis is placed on continuous assessment, which guides students' preparation for future work ('feed forward'), and also allows students to regularly check their progress. Group work on a bioindustrial topic provides students with the opportunity to enhance their employability by developing their leadership and networking skills whilst perfecting their presentation skills and commercial awareness. The aspects on enhancing employability, leadership and networking skills will be matured during additional discussion through the personal tutor programme.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | 49 hours of keynote lectures 6 seminars 8 tutorials 1 practical sessions (x3) 1 practical sessions (x4) 5 presentation sessions | 75 |
| Guided independent study | Student independent study | 225 |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Summative assessment is through a two-hour end of module examination including essay questions (50%); a portfolio that includes short written laboratory reports (30%) and a presentation that may include teamwork (20%).
A range of formative assessments undertaken both in class and during independent study, of relatively short duration, will be set on content determined by the module team. This will provide regular and detailed feedback to students so that they can develop an awareness of their rate and level of progress and of their strengths and weaknesses before summative assessment. Summative assessment strategy is designed to be synoptic and involves students developing not only scientific skills but media, public engagement, and enterprise skills. On-going discussion with members of the module team will assist the student in the development of strategies for improvement and enhancement.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the scientific basis underlying selected recent advances in the biomolecular sciences. | Presentation (S), Portfolio (S), exam (S) and formative assessment (F) |
| 2) Identify and critically evaluate the impact of selected recent advances in the biomolecular sciences on society and the challenges facing the bioindustries. | Presentation (S), exam (S) and formative assessment (F) |
| 3) Discuss the role of intellectual property rights, bioethics and enterprise in translational research. | Presentation (S), exam (S) and formative assessment (F) |
| 4) Recognise the role of communicating scientific information to the public and its effect on public engagement and scientific policy. | Presentation (S), exam (S) and formative assessment (F) |
| 5) Apply and further develop their scientific and professional skills to enhance their employability and showing a greater appreciation of the diverse employment opportunities within the biomolecular sciences. | Presentation (S), Portfolio (S), exam (S) and formative assessment (F) |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Written exam | Written exam | 50 |
| Portfolio of laboratory reports | Coursework | 30 |
| Oral presentation | Practical exam | 20 |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module. Note: From Sept 2018, students of BSc Hons Biological Science and BSc Hons Biochemistry must achieve a minimum mark of 30% in each major element and 40% in aggregate to pass the module in order to be awarded a degree accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
There is no single textbook, which will suffice for this module. Students are encouraged to consult texts recommended in modules throughout their courses.
Relevant journal and news articles will be recommended by the module team on individual topics and will form an indispensable core part of the students' independent study within this module.