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Session: 2022/23

Last modified: 02/03/2022 18:11:36

Title of Module: Pure & Applied Genetics

Code: BIOL09020 SCQF Level: 9
(Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework)
Credit Points: 20 ECTS: 10
(European Credit Transfer Scheme)
School:School of Health and Life Sciences
Module Co-ordinator:Gail  McGarvie

Summary of Module

This module will take a more in depth look at the organisation of the genome and the control of gene expression in different organisms. Knowledge of genome function is key to understanding the normal and disease states in organisms. You will find out more about the human genome project and its effect on medicine, agriculture and forensics. The module will introduce the subject of bioinformatics, using databases to retrieve and construct information. You will acquire practical experience of modern techniques used to study and manipulate DNA e.g. real time PCR and gene cloning. Enquiry based skills will be enhanced by researching and discussing the advantages, problems and ethics of manipulating DNA for applications such as cloning, creating genetically modified organisms and gene therapy.

Undertaking this module will develop a range of graduate attributes. Knowledge and practical skills in molecular biology will be extended. Sourcing, reviewing and presenting current scientific literature within lab reports will develop critical thinking and presentation skills. The module will discuss new research developing innovation, research thinking and consideration of ethical issues.


Module Delivery Method
Face-To-FaceBlendedFully OnlineHybridCHybridOWork-based Learning
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Face-To-Face
Term used to describe the traditional classroom environment where the students and the lecturer meet synchronously in the same room for the whole provision.

Blended
A mode of delivery of a module or a programme that involves online and face-to-face delivery of learning, teaching and assessment activities, student support and feedback. A programme may be considered “blended” if it includes a combination of face-to-face, online and blended modules. If an online programme has any compulsory face-to-face and campus elements it must be described as blended with clearly articulated delivery information to manage student expectations

Fully Online
Instruction that is solely delivered by web-based or internet-based technologies. This term is used to describe the previously used terms distance learning and e learning.

HybridC
Online with mandatory face-to-face learning on Campus

HybridO
Online with optional face-to-face learning on Campus

Work-based Learning
Learning activities where the main location for the learning experience is in the workplace.


Campus(es) for Module Delivery
The module will normally be offered on the following campuses / or by Distance/Online Learning: (Provided viable student numbers permit)
Paisley:Ayr:Dumfries:Lanarkshire:London:Distance/Online Learning:Other:

 

 

 

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Term(s) for Module Delivery
(Provided viable student numbers permit).
Term 1

 

Term 2check markTerm 3

 

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Learning Outcomes: (maximum of 5 statements)

On successful completion of this module the student will be able to:

L1. Describe in detail the structure, organisation and role of genes and genomes

L2. Explain in depth a range of mechanisms that control gene expression in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes

L3. Demonstrate an ability to perform, analyse and evaluate molecular techniques used in DNA manipulation

L4. Discuss the scope and applications of DNA technology

Employability Skills and Personal Development Planning (PDP) Skills
SCQF Headings During completion of this module, there will be an opportunity to achieve core skills in:
Knowledge and Understanding (K and U) SCQF Level 9.

Demonstrate a broad and integrated knowledge of genomic organisation and control of gene expression.

Demonstrate a critical understanding of principal concepts and terminology of selected techniques for DNA manipulation.

Practice: Applied Knowledge and Understanding SCQF Level 9.

Use the theoretical knowledge gained to perform appropriate techniques and analyse the results in the context of the theory.

Generic Cognitive skills SCQF Level 9.

Critically analyse the technique, implications including ethical issues of an application of DNA technology.

Communication, ICT and Numeracy Skills SCQF Level 9.

Communicate effectively orally and in writing. Analyse and interpret data where appropriate. Use IT to retrieve information.

Autonomy, Accountability and Working with others SCQF Level 9.

Working in teams to perform practical work and to research and present information will require time management, organisational skills and an understanding of professional practice.

Pre-requisites: Before undertaking this module the student should have undertaken the following:
Module Code:
Module Title:
Other:or equivalent
Co-requisitesModule Code:
Module Title:

* Indicates that module descriptor is not published.

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Learning and Teaching
Delivery of this module will use a blended learning approach. Core theory and concepts will be delivered using formal lectures and tutorials where student participation will be expected. Students will acquire key practical skills by performing techniques use in DNA technology in the laboratory sessions. The concepts of these techniques will be reinforced by analysing and presenting the data including answering focussed questions on the concept of the techniques. Students will develop skills of computer based information retrieval as they are required to search through several data bases to retrieve data using it to construct information introduction to the subject of Bioinformatics. Enquiry based learning will be used to explore topical issues in DNA technology. This will enhance skills of gathering information, critically analysing including ethical issues and presenting it. Working in groups will develop organisational and time management skills.
Learning Activities
During completion of this module, the learning activities undertaken to achieve the module learning outcomes are stated below:
Student Learning Hours
(Normally totalling 200 hours):
(Note: Learning hours include both contact hours and hours spent on other learning activities)
Lecture/Core Content Delivery12
Laboratory/Practical Demonstration/Workshop12
Tutorial/Synchronous Support Activity12
Asynchronous Class Activity12
Independent Study152
200 Hours Total

**Indicative Resources: (eg. Core text, journals, internet access)

The following materials form essential underpinning for the module content and ultimately for the learning outcomes:

T.A. Brown. (2006) Genomes 3., Garland Science, ISBN 0-8153-4138-5

D.S.T. Nicholl (2008) An Introduction to Genetic Engineering, 3rd Edition. Cambridge University Press, ISBN 13:9780521615211

Web site
http://www.dnalc.org/
Dolan DNA Learning Centre, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory particularly DNA from the Beginning is an excellent site on the background molecular Biology.

Current relevant journals will be used.

T. A. Brown Gene Cloning and DNA Analysis: An Introduction
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell; 6th Edition edition (26 Mar 2010) ISBN-10: 1405181737


(**N.B. Although reading lists should include current publications, students are advised (particularly for material marked with an asterisk*) to wait until the start of session for confirmation of the most up-to-date material)

Engagement Requirements

In line with the Academic Engagement Procedure, Students are defined as academically engaged if they are regularly engaged with timetabled teaching sessions, course-related learning resources including those in the Library and on the relevant learning platform, and complete assessments and submit these on time. Please refer to the Academic Engagement Procedure at the following link: Academic engagement procedure

Where a module has Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body requirements these will be listed here:
Attendance at synchronous sessions (lectures, tutorials and practicals), completion of asynchronous activities, and submission of assessments to meet the learning outcomes of the module. This module has a practical element as part of the Royal Society of Biology accreditation which must be attended.

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Supplemental Information

Programme BoardBiological Sciences and Health
Assessment Results (Pass/Fail) No
Subject PanelBiology L7-11
ModeratorFiona Henriquez
External ExaminerA Tsaousis
Accreditation DetailsThis module is part of the BSc (Hons) Applied Bioscience, BSc (Hons) Applied Bioscience with Forensic Investigation; accredited by Royal Society of Biology (RSB)
Version Number

2.15

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Assessment: (also refer to Assessment Outcomes Grids below)
Two 1 hour class tests worth 50% of the module mark. The resit will be two one hour class tests within the resit period.
Coursework worth 50% of the final mark. The coursework will be two submissions.
Observation of practical skills in molecular techniques used in DNA manipulation. This is a Pass/Fail component which must be passed.
(N.B. (i) Assessment Outcomes Grids for the module (one for each component) can be found below which clearly demonstrate how the learning outcomes of the module will be assessed.
(ii) An indicative schedule listing approximate times within the academic calendar when assessment is likely to feature will be provided within the Student Handbook.)

Assessment Outcome Grids (Footnote A.)

Component 1
Assessment Type (Footnote B.) Learning Outcome (1) Learning Outcome (2) Learning Outcome (3) Learning Outcome (4) Weighting (%) of Assessment ElementTimetabled Contact Hours
Class test (written)check markcheck mark check mark502

Component 2
Assessment Type (Footnote B.) Learning Outcome (1) Learning Outcome (2) Learning Outcome (3) Learning Outcome (4) Weighting (%) of Assessment ElementTimetabled Contact Hours
Report of practical/ field/ clinical work   check mark250
Presentation   check mark250

Component 3
Assessment Type (Footnote B.) Learning Outcome (1) Learning Outcome (2) Learning Outcome (3) Learning Outcome (4) Weighting (%) of Assessment ElementTimetabled Contact Hours
Clinical/ Fieldwork/ Practical skills assessment/ Debate/ Interview/ Viva voce/ Oral  check mark 00
Combined Total For All Components100% 4 hours

Footnotes
A. Referred to within Assessment Section above
B. Identified in the Learning Outcome Section above

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Note(s):
  1. More than one assessment method can be used to assess individual learning outcomes.
  2. Schools are responsible for determining student contact hours. Please refer to University Policy on contact hours (extract contained within section 10 of the Module Descriptor guidance note).
    This will normally be variable across Schools, dependent on Programmes &/or Professional requirements.

Equality and Diversity
In line with current legislation (Equality Act, 2010) and the UWS Equality, Diversity, and Human Rights Code, our modules are accessible and inclusive, with reasonable adjustment for different needs where appropriate. Module materials comply with University guidance on inclusive learning and teaching, and specialist assistive equipment, support provision and adjustment to assessment practice will be made in accordance with UWS policy and regulations. Where modules require practical and/or laboratory based learning or assessment required to meet accrediting body requirements the University will make reasonable adjustment such as adjustable height benches or assistance of a ‘buddy’ or helper.
UWS Equality and Diversity Policy
(N.B. Every effort will be made by the University to accommodate any equality and diversity issues brought to the attention of the School)

2014 University of the West of Scotland

University of the West of Scotland is a Registered Scottish Charity.

Charity number SC002520.