Any level 1 module in Biology or SHS82107-1 Biological Principles for Forensic Sciences

Access to library, computers and books. Room for tutorials (flat rooms) with small tables. Lecture rooms to have facilities for PowerPoint presentations, O/H projectors and screens. Both rooms to have video and blackout facilities.

The module is delivered as a `problem based learning (PBL) module'. There will be four formal lecture presentations (4 x 1 h) which will be used mainly to deliver information about the PBL process and to give whole group opportunities to exchange information. These learning sessions will also provide an opportunity for invited speakers to engage with the students. There will be seven one hour tutorials which will involve small groups meeting to discuss specific `trigger' questions relevant to the module content. The tutorials will involve a mixture of engagements: student presentations, discussions to clarify specific issues, planning opportunities for further learning to be undertaken. There will also be opportunities for tutors to guide the group work (where necessary) and provide formative feedback to students on coursework in preparation.
Students will view and discuss specific video clips which will then form the basis of their assessed work. Students will be guided in their group work, although the strong emphasis on individual learning will not be lost. Specific time will be made available within the module, both in the whole group and smaller tutorials, to introduce the role of peer evaluation.

The module is student centred and this means that all decisions about teaching are considered in the light of the impact or potential impact on student learning. The module considers: (1) Sites of action and absorption of drug groupings, (2) addiction and dependency with reference to the major drugs, and (3) special topics including 'drugs and society' and 'drugs curing or causing illness'.

Students will be required to complete 2 pieces of summative assessment.

60% Article. A written report of 1200 words giving guidance to local general practitioners detailing specific issues relating to drugs and the human body. (1,2)

40% Written relective assignment. Review of participant interaction of video clips based on actual PBL sessions detailing the merits and challenges of PBL . (3)
The process to support the preparation of this assignment is as follows:
1. Watch video clips of PBL sessions
2. Discuss video clips in groups
3. Reflect on own and peers' reaction to the PBL video clips

The opportunity is provided for written formative feedback on semi-structured articles. The importance of formative feedback is made clear to all students.

Liska, K. (2003) Drugs and the Human Body
Pearson Education.