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Module Information

Module Identifier
BR00220
Module Title
Practical and Analytical Skills for Biologists
Academic Year
2026/2027
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 2 (Taught over 2 semesters)
Other Staff

Course Delivery

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Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Lab/field report part 1Ìý An introduction and methodology to be submitted at the end of semester 1. 1000 WordsÌý 40%
Semester Assessment Lab/field report part 2Ìý The results and discussion to be submitted at the end of semester 2. 2000 WordsÌý 60%
Supplementary Assessment Lab/field report part 1Ìý An introduction and methodology to be submitted during the supplementary resit period. 1000 WordsÌý 40%
Supplementary Assessment Lab/field report part 2Ìý The results and discussion to be submitted during the supplementary resit period. 2000 WordsÌý 60%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

Demonstrate competence in designing experiments and formulating hypotheses.

Undertake a range of lab/field techniques to obtain reliable experimental data.

Apply a range of basic mathematical techniques to analyse biological data in order to address experimental hypotheses.

Use of a range of computer word processing and spreadsheet packages.

Use online resources to search for scientific literature relevant to the topic under investigation.

Communicate experimental findings clearly and effectively through the preparation of well-structured scientific reports.

Brief description

The module comprises a series of integrated field and lab practical sessions, based on degree scheme, with accompanying workshops which aim to provide foundation year students with the required practical, numeracy and literacy skills for further study in life sciences.

Aims

The aim of this module is to develop students’ ability to acquire reliable and valid experimental data through practical laboratory and/or field-based investigations. It also aims to equip students with the skills to apply appropriate statistical techniques to analyse and interpret their data, culminating in the production of comprehensive experimental reports.

Content

In semester one the module focuses on the process of acquiring reliable experimental data in the laboratory and/or field, and provide practical experience of this process. In semester two the students will be taught how to analyse their data using a variety of statistical techniques following a series of integrated workshops including: Student's t-test, regression, correlation, Chi-squared etc.

Students will be expected to produce a full written experimental report with the appropriate data analysis (split into two submissions at the end of semester 1 and 2 respectively) using their data gathered from their respective laboratory/field sessions.

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Adaptability and resilience This module fosters adaptability and resilience by challenging students to respond to unexpected results, troubleshoot experimental issues, and refine their approaches to data collection and analysis in dynamic laboratory and field environments.
Creative Problem Solving This module develops creative problem-solving skills by encouraging students to design effective experimental approaches, interpret data, and problem solve when faced with practical or analytical challenges.
Critical and analytical thinking This module enhances critical and analytical thinking by requiring students to evaluate the reliability of their data, select appropriate statistical methods, and draw evidence-based conclusions from their experimental findings.
Digital capability This module builds digital competency by enabling students to use data analysis software and digital tools to process, visualise, and interpret experimental data effectively and accurately. It will also be developed through the use of word processing software and online resources to help search for scientific literature relevant to the topic under investigation.
Professional communication The mdoule develops professional communication skills through the production of clear, well structured scientific reports that presents biological information accurately and coherently.
Real world sense This module develops a real-world sense by linking experimental and analytical skills to authentic scientific practices, preparing students to apply their learning to practical research and professional contexts.
Reflection This module builds self reflective practice by identifying strengths and areas for improvement in scientific understanding and learning strategies through the submission of coursework.
Subject Specific Skills Pratical, analytical and written skills relevant to the field of biological sciences will be taught and assessed.

Notes

This module is at Level 3