Module ENGI46215: Tissue Engineering

Department: Engineering

ENGI46215: Tissue Engineering

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To introduce tissue engineering and regenerative medicine principles.
• To present the engineering methods contributing to the interdisciplinary area of tissue engineering.
• To explore the significant of microenvironmental factors in tissue development.
• To allow for identifying suitable tissue engineering appraoches for specific applications.

Content

• Overview of various tissue engineering techniques and applications.
• The role of microenvironmental factors and mechanical forces in cell behaviour.
• Cell and tissue culture approaches in tissue engineering.
• Bioreactors for tissue engineering; fluid flow, mass, and heat transport phenomena.
• Biocompatible materials and cell-material interactions.
• Tissue scaffolds and fabrication techniques in tissue engineering.
• Delivery strategies in regenerative medicine.
• Mathematical and computational modelling in tissue engineering.

Learning Outcomes

• A knowledge of the status of tissue engineering, its challenges, limitations, and prospects.
• An understanding of the importance of the biophysical microenvironment in cell behaviour, and how this knowledge can be applied to tissue engineering.
• An understanding of the design principles for designing scaffolds and bioreactors.
• An appreciation of the challenges of regenerative medicine.
• AHEP4 Learning Outcomes: In order to satisfy Professional Engineering Institution (PEI) accreditation requirements the following Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes (AHEP4) Learning Outcomes are assessed within this module:
• M1. Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems (exam assessed).

• Ability to apply fundamental engineering concepts in the field of tissue engineering.
• Capacity to quantify the key biophysical parameters pertaining to cells and tissues.
• Determination of the forces and transport phenomena in engineered biological systems.
• Awareness of future developments in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

• Capacity for independent self-learning within the bounds of professional practice.
• Mathematical and numerical skills appropriate for an engineer.
• Skills to combine interdisciplinary biological and engineering concepts relevant to the application of advanced tissue engineering problems.
• Develop skills to critically analyse the scientific literature of tissue engineering and formulate informed opinions that can be communicated effectively.

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

• The module content is delivered through lectures and reinforced by Formative Problem Sheets and Problem Classes, equipping students with the required problem-solving capability.
• Throughout the academic year, students will be required to submit Formative Problem Sheets via the virtual learning environment to monitor and consolidate their understanding as the course progresses.
• Students will attend one Discussion Class in the Michaelmas term and a second in the Epiphany term. These sessions provide an opportunity to consolidate material covered in lectures and to receive guidance and support from a demonstrator.
• At the start of the academic year, students will complete a benchmark test to assess prior knowledge and highlight areas needing further consolidation. This diagnostic activity directs students towards appropriate revision resources and independent study.
• A mock examination will be held in the Epiphany term to provide a formative, exam‑style experience. Students may then discuss their performance informally with academic staff, either during Office Hours or an Academic Adviser session, and receive targeted feedback ahead of the summative assessment.
• A further Revision Class will be held ahead of the main examination period to support students in preparing for their final assessments.
• Written timed examinations are appropriate because of the wide range of analytical, in-depth material covered in this module and allow students to demonstrate the ability to solve advanced problems independently.
• Students are encouraged to engage with staff Office Hours for one‑to‑one or small‑group discussion of any aspect of the module. These sessions are offered weekly during teaching, timings are published on Learn Ultra.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Formative assessment is provided by means of formative problem sheets, benchmark test and mock examinations.

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.