Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2024-2025

Module BIOL3581: WORKSHOP

Department: Biosciences

BIOL3581: WORKSHOP

Type Tied Level 3 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2024/2025 Module Cap Location Durham
Tied to C103
Tied to C105
Tied to C108
Tied to C107

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • • Level 3 Field Course (BIOL3161)

Aims

  • To develop an appreciation of the application of advanced practical techniques used to undertake research in Biological sciences

Content

  • Training in application of biological, biochemical and molecular biological techniques underpinning investigation in research topics offered by the department.
  • Training in use of online resources relevant for research techniques.
  • Analysis and interpretation of data collected in the laboratory.
  • Training in health and safety aspects of relevant research laboratory work.
  • Consideration of project design and execution in a research laboratory environment.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Knowledge of the application of a variety of laboratory methods to investigate physiology, biochemistry and molecular biology of plants and animals, or aspects of human biology, chosen from a selection of topics offered by the department.
  • Knowledge of analytical techniques used in the study of biological sciences.
  • Understanding of good laboratory practice in safe working, record keeping, and data collection.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • To develop an understanding of how relevant practical techniques are applied in an investigation within biological sciences.
  • Interpretative skills at an advanced level for laboratory-collected data.
Key Skills:
  • Literacy, in being able to consult and extract information from printed and on-line archives.
  • Data analysis, in interpretation and critical analysis of data
  • Communication skills, in presenting report.
  • Team work.
  • Self-motivation, in independent work on report.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lectures: deliver subject-specific knowledge.
  • Tutorials: develop team skills in small group working and give enhancement of the student learning experience, supporting attainment of learning outcomes.
  • Self-guided learning contributes to subject-specific knowledge and self-motivation.
  • Report gives experience in scientific writing, data visualization and critical analysis.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Tutorials 1 2
Lectures / Seminars 12 1 hour 12
Practical exercises 30
Preparation & Reading 156
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Continuous Assessment Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Presentation 20% No
Report 80% No

Formative Assessment:


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University