Description
This module aims to provide a broad introduction of the theory and practice of biology.
Aims
The aim of this Module is to introduce the fundamental concepts of biology in both a theoretical and practical context.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module the student should be able to:
1. Describe the details of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure, function and basic biochemistry.
2. Outline the origin and diversity of life including the fundamentals and principles of genetics and evolution.
3. Show competency in the use of fundamental laboratory techniques.
4. Demonstrate competency in biological data handling and experimental design. Identify the principles of good laboratory practice, including record keeping, report writing and COSHH regulations.
Indicative Content
1 The principles of cell biology
A basic overview of cell structure & division and a comparison between different cell types. Biochemical principles.
2 The organism
Overview of the major forms of life and their taxonomic relationships. Fundamental concepts in organismal biology (homeostasis, evolution and genetic inheritance).
3 Introductory microbiology
Types of microorganism, their characteristics, discovery, origin, evolution and medical significance.
4 Basic laboratory techniques
Utilisation of basic instrumentation (i.e. spectrophotometers and microscopes), preparation of solutions, handling of liquids and solids (use of glassware and pipettes). Development of aseptic techniques, media selection & preparation, growth and isolation of microorganisms, enumeration, subculturing techniques. Macro & microscopic examination. Staining for microscopy. Recording and interpreting data.
5 Health and Safety
Health and safety in the laboratory, Risk assessments and COSHH regulations as applied to the laboratory.
6 Data Handling and Numeracy Skills
Basic numeracy skills for laboratory work (converting between units, molarity, percentage (w/v), percentage (v/v), stock solutions). Introductory statistics for biosciences: populations, variables, samples, randomness and independence (including basic statistical measurements, confidence intervals, correlation/regression, normal distribution, t-tests). Graphical and numerical data description.
Teaching and Learning Work Loads
| Teaching and Learning Method | Hours |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Tutorial/Seminar | 12 |
| Practical Activity | 36 |
| Assessment | 114 |
| Independent | 14 |
| Total | 200 |
Guidance notes
SCQF Level - The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.
Credit Value – The total value of SCQF credits for the module. 20 credits are the equivalent of 10 ECTS credits. A full-time student should normally register for 60 SCQF credits per semester.
Disclaimer
We make every effort to ensure that the information on our website is accurate but it is possible that some changes may occur prior to the academic year of entry. The modules listed in this catalogue are offered subject to availability during academic year 2021/22 , and may be subject to change for future years.
