This module is a core module for students studying Biological Sciences (Medical Biology) and is an option for those studying Biological Sciences (Human Biology). The module is also an option for Forensic Biology and Medical Biochemistry. The module provides contemporary insight into human parasites of global importance, the diseases that they cause, and the role of vectors in transmission. Arthropod borne viruses (arboviruses) are also considered, particularly in the context of co-infection with human parasites. The epidemiology of parasitic disease, morbidity, mortality and socioeconomic impacts are discussed, with an emphasis on recent advances in control measures. The module is delivered through research-informed teaching; practical laboratory sessions form an essential compliment to lectures and tutorials, demonstrating methods of diagnosis of parasitic disease and identification of vectors.
To introduce the variety of human parasites and vectors that occur in nature, and their importance in human disease.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Research-informed teaching in lectures and interactive seminar sessions will introduce and facilitate discussion of fundamental concepts of medical parasitology and will direct the students to further reading and additional educational resources to support their learning. Small group practical sessions will be used to demonstrate and enable practice of diagnostic techniques and to expand knowledge of medical parasitology. Tutorials will be provided to support students in the preparation of presentations on specific topics. The presentations (oral or poster) will provide an opportunity for students to extend their knowledge of medical parasitology by unsupervised literature-based research on specialist themes. Work in practical classes and preparation of presentations and discussion of specialist topics will enable the practice and development of key skills in communication, teamwork, presentation, numeracy, ICT and independent learning. Thus, key employability skills (eg. communication, teamwork, self-management) will be enhanced from level 4/5, while higher level 6 skills in leadership and networking will also be developed during presentations and practical sessions.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | Lectures (comprising 44 one-hour lectures). Practicals and practical spot test (Nine hours comprising four two-hour practicals and a one hour test). Tutorials/seminars (comprising 14 one-hour tutorials/seminars). | 67 |
| Guided independent study | Student independent study | 233 |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Summative assessment comprises 40% practical examination and 60% written examination. The practical examination mark will be divided between two elements: an in class practical test that assesses knowledge obtained through the laboratory based elements of the module, and a presentation (oral or poster) that will be developed through independent study of a specified topic, but supported by the teaching team. The end of module written examination will require students to answer extended 'essay-type' questions designed to test the students depth and breadth of knowledge on medical parasitology.
A range of regular formative assessments undertaken during lectures, tutorials, practical classes and through independent study will be set by the teaching team. This will ensure regular and detailed feedback to the students to enable them to monitor their progress and identify their strengths and weaknesses to facilitate a good outcome in summative assessments.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) Critically evaluate the nature and importance of animal parasites, arboviruses, and vectors involved in human disease | Written examination (S), and presentation / practical test (S,F). |
| 2) Discuss in detail parasite and vector structure, life cycles and ecology | Written examination (S), and presentation / practical test (S,F). |
| 3) Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of parasite-induced pathology | Written examination (S), and presentation / practical test (S,F). |
| 4) Critically evaluate the measures used in parasite and vector control | Written examination (S), and presentation / practical test (S,F). |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Formal exam | Formal exam | 60% |
| In class practical test | Practical exam | 20% |
| 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 that this is the current edition at time of preparation, you are required to consult the most recent edition.
John, DT, Petri WA (2006) Markell and Vogue's Medical Parasitology. Ninth Edition. Saunders Elsevier [ISBN-10: 0-7216-4793-6]
Individual lecturers will recommend research articles and research reviews relevant to specific topic to enable students to engage with the research literature and support their learning. Example journals might include:
Trends in Parasitology
PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases
Parasites and Vectors