Higher Skills in the Biological Sciences: Experimental Design and Dissertation
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| LIFE2078 | Life Sciences | 2 | 10 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- LIFE2078
- School
- Life Sciences
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 10
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
There is a limited number of places on this module. Students are reminded that enrolments which are not agreed by the Offering School in advance may be cancelled without notice. The module will train students in vital skills in modern biological sciences, and will form a basis for future modules, notably project work in the third and fourth years of their degree. The module will require students to produce a short biological dissertation of a topic of their choice, relevant to their degree course, with help through a tutorial system in researching their topic, and developing writing and communication skills. The statistics and experimental design component will reinforce techniques and methodologies taught in the qualifying year, while also giving students a chance to design their own experiments. The module also offers training in other study skills, such as managing time and workload, using the library, identifying steps in choosing a career after Nottingham, making effective applications, and obtaining internships and summer studentships.
Target Students
Level 2 students enrolled on (C100/C101) Biology; (C300/C301) Zoology; (C400/C401) Genetics who are studying abroad in the Spring semester. Also available to JYA/Erasmus students.
Classes
This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc
Assessment
- 50% Dissertation: 2,000 word mini dissertation.
- 40% Coursework 1: 1500 word experimental design write up.
- 10% Presentation: Experimental design group presentation (8 minutes).
Assessed by end of designated period
Educational Aims
Develop critical skills for modern biological research.Learning Outcomes
- Students will gain confidence and skills in using the biological literature.
- Their study skills will be enhanced.
- Their knowledge of statistical tools and methods will be reinforced and developed, and, through designing their own experiments, they will learn to build statistical principles into their experimental methodologies.
- Through writing their small dissertation, they will learn to collate information from multiple sources, and describe a field clearly and concisely, revealing the state of present knowledge and prospects for future developments.
Conveners
- Dr Chris Wade
- Dr Sophie Evison