Foundations of Human Biology
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| LIFEF007 | Life Sciences | 0 | 40 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- LIFEF007
- School
- Life Sciences
- Level
- 0
- Credits
- 40
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
This module will provide students with an introduction to life at the molecular, cellular, physiological, and organismal levels and provide the background to enable them to enter degree programmes with a focus on human health. Topics will include: • Cell structure and microscopy • Biological molecules • Enzymes • Nucleic acids and the genetic code • Cell division and the cell cycle • Gene technologies • Meiosis, gametogenesis, and inheritance • Nutrition and digestion • Cellular respiration • Exchange, transport, and excretion • Biotechnology • Pathogens, disease, and the immune response • Central and peripheral nervous system.
Target Students
Foundation Science students who wish to progress to undergraduate degrees with a strong focus on human health, such as Neuroscience, Nutrition and Dietetics, Pharmacology, Pharmacy, and Sports and Exercise Science.
Classes
This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc.
Assessment
- 15% Coursework 1: Context based activity, completed in the Autumn semester. In-class assessment (2 hours)
- 10% Coursework 2: Individual 5-minute oral presentation completed in the spring semester
- 25% Coursework 3: 2000-word practical report completed in the spring semester
- 50% Exam 1 (2-hour): ExamSys assessment with multiple choice and short answer questions, to be completed in the May/June exam period
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
The module aims to complement other material in the Science Foundation course, to equip students with little or no background in Biology beyond GCSE with the necessary knowledge and understanding to progress to Level 1 of degrees involving human biology content.Learning Outcomes
Students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
1a. The relationship between human biology and other disciplines;
1b. An introduction to current trends and developments in human biology;
1c. Awareness of ethical issues and the impact of advances in human biology on society;
1d. Basics of cell and molecular biology;
1e. Principles underlying genetics and inheritance;
1f. Aspects of human physiology;
1g. Awareness of the roles that micro-organisms play in human health.
Students should be able to demonstrate intellectual skills:
2a. Begin to critically analyse and interpret published information and data;
2b. Acquire information systematically, process it effectively, and draw appropriate conclusions;
2c. Make and record accurate observations and measurements.
Students should be able to demonstrate professional practical skills:
3a. Carry out basic scientific research of published sources and make use of the materials acquired;
3b. Write and construct scientific documents (e.g. lab reports) using appropriate styles, conventions, and terminology;
3c. Work safely in the laboratory and follow safety guidelines;
3d. Undertake practical experimental work using appropriate equipment and instruments;
3e. Apply basic knowledge of practical approaches and techniques
Students should be able to demonstrate transferable skills:
4a. Communicate effectively in writing;
4b. Communicate effectively in oral presentation;
4c. Organise and manage their working time, schedule tasks, and meet deadlines;
4d. Use and access information and communication technology;
4e. Reflect on and assess their own progress, strengths and weaknesses;
4f. Manage and manipulate numerical data;
4g. Work productively with others.