Module: BIO4000-20 Biological Techniques

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Dr Samantha Lane

Module Tutor Contact Details: S.Lane@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module is designed to give students studying for a course within Biology the knowledge and skills to progress onto more specialised studies at subsequent levels. It will also equip those from other subjects with core knowledge and skills in Biology, enabling you to take other biology modules in year 2 or to make Biology part of your degree course. You will examine fundamental biological processes and how these are studied and applied. The principles of cell and tissue structure, DNA, genetics and evolution, as well as enzymes and their reactions are introduced. Coupled with subject specific knowledge and understanding, through practicals and workshops, as well as coursework assignments, the module is also designed to provide students with skills in communication, numeracy and IT. The module will give you the knowledge, practical skills and experience needed to understand the broad subject of biology, and aims to highlight avenues for further exploration. By taking this module students will fulfil the Bath Spa graduate attributes to become critical thinkers: able to express their ideas in written and oral form, and possessing information literacy; and to be creative: able to innovate and to solve problems by working across disciplines as professional or artistic practitioners.

2. Outline syllabus

Contact time will include a mixture of lectures, workshops and hands on practical sessions. Information provided in the lectures will be further explored in practicals and workshops. For example, cell theory will be followed up by the microscopic examination of cells and their replication and DNA structure will be analysed using electrophoresis techniques. Practical work including cellular and tissue microscopy, chemical and molecular analysis, will involve working individually and in small groups. Individual and group tutorials are also available to instruct and advise students in writing scientific reports. Through the practical exercises, this module enables assessment of transferable skills addressed within a scientific context. These include literature searches, data recording and interpretation, statistical analysis and group working. At key points through the module, feedback will be given and there will be opportunities to check students’ progress. Minerva will provide information to help develop an appreciation of the broader scientific and technological aspects which underpin this subject area, and develop skills in independent learning.

3. Teaching and learning activities

You will have a mixture of lectures and practical/workshop activities each week. Lectures introduce the central topics of the module and these are developed and illustrated through the associated practical work and discussion.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Scientific paper (2000 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 50

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Exam

• Description: Unseen examination (2 hours)

• % Weighting: 50