On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
LO1 - Apply a broad range of laboratory-based competencies.
LO2 - Demonstrate proficiency in numeracy, IT, data handling and data analysis.
LO3 - Evidence competency in scientific writing, information retrieval and critical analysis skills.
LO4 - Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of disease on humans from a public health perspective.
This module will provide you with a range of fundamental study and practical skills that can be applied throughout the Biomedical Science degree and beyond, in addition to providing individual support as you transition into an independent learner. You will develop a range of critical skills, including numeracy, information literacy, writing abilities and essential study skills. The laboratory skills component of the module will focus on techniques that are common across several modules, whilst emphasising safety protocols and adherence to good laboratory practice. In addition, you will acquire core competencies in the use of key laboratory equipment.
The content of this module has been mapped to the IBMS QAA Benchmark requirements for:
- Generic and subject-specific skills including health and safety, good laboratory practice and awareness of the IBMS and HCPC.
- Discipline- and subject-specific skills associated with laboratory practice.
- Key transferable skills, including communication, IT, numeracy, and data analysis.
You will have 1 x 2 hr lectures of contact time per week which will cover skills such as information gathering, academic writing, time management and critical thinking. The lectures will also introduce the professional bodies such as the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
A total of 5 x 2 hr practical sessions will be given to introduce you to key laboratory skills.
A total of 10 x 1 hr tutorials per week will be offered to provide the opportunity for you to apply the concepts that have been introduced in the lecture sessions to a Biomedical Science setting.
Lectures
Hours: 20
Intended Group Size: Full Cohort (40)
Practical sessions
Hours: 10
Intended Group Size: Full Cohort (40)
Tutorials
Hours: 10
Intended Group Size: Max 20
Guided independent study
Hours: 110
Further details relating to assessment
Post lecture, tutorial and practical session activities submitted through Moodle will facilitate ongoing formative assessment opportunities via lecturer or peer feedback.
The laboratory competency tests will take place in the exam weeks of Semester 1. You will be set a series of practical tasks within the laboratory from this module, Systems Biology and Cell Biology modules. Laboratory skills, including data analysis, will be assessed by the staff during the test with marks available for evidencing specific laboratory skills detailed in a marking scheme specific for the set tasks. There will be a mock laboratory competency test offered in advance of the final assessment to allow you to prepare for the end of Semester test.
For the essay assessment, you will apply your newly developed skills in scientific writing, information retrieval and critical analysis, to a particular disease from a public health perspective. Essay topics will be set within tutor groups in agreement with the tutor.
Students should refer to the Module Handbook for full details of marking criteria.
001 Laboratory competency test (Intergrated assessment with Cell Biology and Systems Physiology); 60 mins; End of Semester 1 50%
002 Essay; 1500 words; Mid semester 1 50%
Module Coordinator - Margarita Gomez Escalada
Level - 4
Credit Value - 15
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 4S1