Environmental Biotechnology
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| BIOS3026 | Biosciences | 3 | 10 | Spring UK |
- Code
- BIOS3026
- School
- Biosciences
- Level
- 3
- Credits
- 10
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
This module provides training in environmental biotechnology, with particular emphasis on the interaction between microorganisms and the environment. The main topics covered will be wastewater treatment, bioremediation of organic and inorganic pollutants, microbes as indicators of risk factors in the environment, microbes in agriculture (biocontrol and biofertilisers) and the role of microorganisms in bioenergy production.
Each topic will be introduced by a formal lecture followed by workshops during which students will study the topics in greater detail through problem-based learning techniques facilitated by the Convenor and by independent research. Knowledge and understanding of the lecture and workshop material will be assessed by an online Moodle examination (24h).
Target Students
Only available for Biosciences, Life Sciences, Natural Sciences,Bachelor of Science with Honours Environmental Sciences, PGT Environmental Management students.
Classes
- One 3-hour workshop each week for 4 weeks
- One 3-hour lecture each week for 8 weeks
Activities will take place every teaching week of the Semester. 36 hours of lectures and facilitated workshops.
Assessment
- 100% Exam 1 (24-hour): Examination
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
To provide students with a sound understanding of environmental biotechnology, the role of microbes in natural processes and their application in wastewater treatment, bioremediation processes, sustainable agriculture and bioenergy production.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding of:
- The way microbes interact with the environment.
- The applied effects of microbes on the environment and on human activity and welfare.
Intellectual Skills - the ability to:
- Critically analyse and interpret published information and data.
- Understand complex ideas and relate them to specific problems or questions.
Professional Skills - the ability to:
- Work safely in the laboratory and to assess related safety issues.
- Undertake appropriate experimental design and statistical analysis.
Transferable Skills - the ability to:
- Work productively with others.
- Communicate effectively by oral presentation.
- Manage and manipulate numerical data.