Module: BIO6108-20 Investigations in Microbiology

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Samantha Lane

Module Tutor Contact Details:  s.lane@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module allows you to study a topical aspect of Microbiology in detail. The topics available will be in an area of Microbiology covered at Levels 4 and 5, and will give you the opportunity to build on this foundation, by investigating the issues surrounding your chosen area of interest through desk-based research. You will work alongside other students as part of a group, each looking at a different aspect of the topic. This module aims to further develop your critical literature research skills and your group working and communication skills, as well as deepening your knowledge of a particular topic, and increasing awareness of its wider implications.

 2. Outline syllabus

The exact microbiological topics to be addressed will be decided by students on the module depending on their area of interest, but these could include areas such as human infectious disease (healthcare-associated infections, tropical protozoan diseases and HIV/AIDS); plant pests and disease, animal health and disease (parasites, zoonoses, pathogenic fungi), or elements of the aquatic environment such as water contamination linked to pollution, algal blooms and parasites. Investigations will include examination of the pathology and epidemiology, impact and prevention strategies, where relevant.

3. Teaching and learning activities

You will work as part of a small research group, supported by group tutorials, examining current trends in research into a specific area of microbiology, and discuss how this relates to the findings of other members of the group. You will normally attend a regular group tutorial. In addition, you will conduct individual and collaborative research that will contribute to the group’s work. Your activities will be guided by tutorial discussions and via material provided through Minerva. You will work towards producing an individual review on your chosen topic area, but there is also a strong group working element to the module. You are expected to demonstrate how group meetings have influenced your review and enabled you to progress your ideas; this aspect allows you to formulate a diary of collaborative work.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Diary of collaborative work 1000 words 

• % Weighting: 30%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Individual research review of 3000 words 

• % Weighting: 70%