Module Descriptors
CURRENT ADVANCES IN THE BIOSCIENCES
BIOL60632
Key Facts
Health, Education, Policing and Sciences
Level 6
15 credits
Contact
Leader: Richard Halfpenny
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 33
Independent Study Hours: 117
Total Learning Hours: 150
Assessment
  • ASSIGNMENT (4000 WORDS) weighted at 100%
  • WORKSHOP TASKS weighted at 0%
Module Details
Learning Outcomes
1. DEMONSTRATE AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE UNCERTAINTY, AMBIGUITY AND LIMITS OF KNOWLEDGE WITHIN YOUR AWARD DISCIPLINE AND/OR RELATED AREAS
Knowledge and Understanding
Learning

2. USE ESTABLISHED TECHNIQUES OF ENQUIRY WITHIN YOUR DISCIPLINE TO INITIATE AND UNDERTAKE CRITICAL EVALUATION OF CURRENT RESEARCH AND ARRIVE AT CONSIDERED JUDGEMENT ON THE VALUE OF THIS WORK; TO CONSIDER WIDER ETHICAL ISSUES AND TO COMMUNICATE YOUR CONCLUSIONS IN AN APPROPRIATE WAY TO OTHER SCIENTISTS
Analysis
Communication
Enquiry

3. MANAGE YOUR OWN LEARNING BY TAKING PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND SHOWING INITIATIVE IN ORDER TO DEMONSTRATE YOUR LEARNING ABILITY, PERSONAL QUALITIES AND TRANSFERABLE SKILLS NECESSARY FOR PROFESSIONAL LEVEL EMPLOYMENT, FURTHER STUDY OR TRAINING.
Reflection

4. EVALUATE THE ROLE OF RESEARCH, ENQUIRY, ENDEAVOUR AND ENTERPRISE WITHIN THE GLOBAL CONTEXT AND YOUR ROLE AS A NASCENT GRADUATE LIFE SCIENTIST WITHIN THAT CONTEXT Application
Knowledge and Understanding
Indicative Content
In this module you will have the opportunity to develop, through synoptic broad ranging activities, many of the skills and attributes of the critical thinker. Beginning with an introduction to critical thinking and discipline paradigms within the Life Sciences, the module will consider debate, discourse and disagreement within science through real life examples. These will be examined within an ethical context, considering differing viewpoints and ethical thinking. Cutting-edge topics in Life Science research, including some controversial issues will be presented in a series of 'academic perspectives' sessions delivered by tutors and guest speakers followed by structured discussion and debate. These can be face to face lectures or recorded lectures and asynchronous sessions and discussion. Specialist external speakers, from a range of backgrounds, will contribute to the delivery of the module through these perspective lectures. The module will include collaborative sessions which are student led and focused, encouraging peer support and co-production. The module may explore many aspects of the role of Life Sciences in the global economy, in knowledge industries and specifically the importance of graduates to the growing global life sciences communities.
Assessment Details
There are 2 assessments for this module:
1. Evidence of engagement in modular discussion (20%) (LO 2)
You will provide a written statement of how you have engaged in discussion and debate during the module, including evidence.
2. Written assignment (80%) max 3500 words (Learning Outcome 1,2,3,4)
You will develop the title and plan for the written assignment by negotiation with an assigned tutor. The topic must relate to your award and be approved by the module coordinator.
Formative feedback will be available on the written assignment plan. Specific criteria will be
available in the module handbook at the start of the module.

The written assignment is the FINAL assessment for this module.
Learning Strategies
11 hours (11 x 1) of Perspectives lectures
22 hours (11 x 2) of workshops or tasks

Independent study hours
128 hours comprising:
Reading, thinking, researching literature and following up reference and source - 30 hours
Preparation for and summary review of workshop sessions - 30 hours
Drafting, editing, reviewing and writing assignment - 78 hours
Texts
There are no texts for this module. You will be directed to online sources and primary literature, editorial, scientific and social commentary. You may also use governmental publications, reports and articles for different audiences. A range on online video will also be used for this module.
Resources
Full use and support for Blackboard, BB collaborate, Panopto or other lecture recording facility.
Special Admissions Requirements
Computing hardware, software and internet access to enable full use of online delivery.