Formative feedback will be given over the tasks associated with the module topics. Discussion between students will be encouraged allowing peer and tutor feedback to be given.

Summative:- Coursework 100% distributed as follows:
e-test, a time constrained exercise over the internet , comprising a multiple choice section of diverse questions from the course and some short answer questions (1, 2, 3 5). 40%.

A critical essay (2000-3000 words) discussing the current and potential impact of molecular biology on the understanding and treatment of a chosen genetic disease (1,2,3, 4). 60%

Full details of assessment are provided in the module handbook

PCs with access to the internet, to access genomic databases and analytical programs.
Access to library resources including BIDS, Athens etc..

T. Strachan & A. P. Read, Human Molecular Genetics 4th ed., 2011. Garland Science. ISBN 978-0-815-34149-9

You may also find the following texts useful
P. Sudbery & I. Sudbery (2009) Human Molecular Genetics, 3rd edition, Pearson/Benjamin Cummings. ISBN 978-0-13-205157-6.
Alberts, B., Johnson, A., Lewis, J., Raff, M., Roberts, K., Walter, P. (2008). Molecular Biology of the Cell, 5th edition. Garland Science. ISBN 978-0-8153-4106-2

The module covers the contribution of human molecular genetics to modern medicine. A major theme will be the molecular basis of genetic diseases, the origin and types of mutations and their potential phenotypic consequences. Single gene diseases will be considered along with imprinting and epigenetic phenomena which may impact on their severity. Gene Control through transcriptional regulation - activation and repression and the mechanisms of transcriptional control in eukaryotes will be reviewed along with the role of gene regulation in disease.
Positional cloning as a major method of isolating human genes will be covered along with the medical potential of the human genome project. The use of cloned genes in diagnosis and potential treatment will lead to discussions in the power of molecular genetics in post and pre natal diagnosis and the ethical problems arising from this and the treatment of genetic diseases and current work with gene therapy and its future potential.

The module is delivered entirely in a VLE as nine activities over nine weeks. Directed independent problem-solving/tasks, to include distributed learning material, guided reading and completion of assessment tasks will occupy the students' time. The activities will guide extensive independent and directed study by the student. A key text will provide the basic structure and fundamental aspects of the course and the activities will develop depth from this basic background through exploration of the numerous web-sites associated with molecular genetics.
Assessment will be by the submission of two pieces of work related to the activities.
The tutor can be contacted to clarify or discuss the work via telephone or e-mail or video links. Within the VLE a discussion group will also provide for student -student or student -tutor contact.
Additionally, guided independent study will occupy the remaining hours assigned. Tutor support will be provided via the Blackboard course pages where participants will find resources and guided material to direct and inform their reading, reflection, assessment, information gathering and critical appraisal.
Participants will have access to tutors online at specified times, as outlined in the module handbook.