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Book of Modules 2012/2013 |
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BL1002 Cells, Biomolecules, Genetics and Evolution
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students:
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 3hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Barbara Doyle Prestwich, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Dr Barbara Doyle Prestwich, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES; Staff, Department of Biochemistry; Staff, Department of Microbiology.
Module Objective: To describe cell structure and biomolecules; to give a detailed introduction to genetics and the theory of evolution and acquire laboratory skills.
Module Content: Structure of viruses, prokaryote and eukaryote cells. Proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acid. Gene structure and function. Mendelian inheritance and population genetics. Evolution, Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection, major transitions in evolution and the origins of life.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· define the differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
· describe the structure, function and behaviour of genes in a population.
· explain the major transitions in evolution.
· demonstrate competence in the use of light microscopes.
· interpret data from classical genetic studies.
· integrate concepts of genetic processes in plants and animals.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 60 marks (End of Year MCQ); Continuous Assessment 40 marks (In-term MCQ 20 marks; 2 x Practicals 10 marks each).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year MCQ Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40% Students must attend, undertake and submit completed written work for both of the practical sessions. Students not meeting this requirement will be disbarred from the End of Year Examination in the module and from the Autumn Supplemental examination in the module. A student will be notified when he/she has failed to fulfil the above criteria for one practical session. Opportunities to repeat missed practicals will be offered on a limited basis during the module teaching period only.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) mcq.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) mcq to be taken in Autumn. No supplemental examination unless condition(s) are met, Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (Lab practical marks are carried forward to Autumn. Repeat MCQ).
BL1003 Introduction to Biological Chemistry and Microbiology
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students:
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 4 x 3hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Sinead Kerins, Department of Biochemistry.
Lecturer(s): Dr Sinead Kerins, Department of Biochemistry; Prof Douwe Van Sinderen, Department of Microbiology.
Module Objective: To introduce the chemistry of biological processes and to the properties of micro-organisms.
Module Content: Biomolecules, Biochemical processes, Enzymes, Introduction to metabolism and Biotechnology, Discovery of micro-organisms, Impact on life, Microbial diversity and growth and interaction with the environment.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· List the major biomolecules that exist in nature and describe them in terms of structure and function;
· Understand the main metabolic reactions that occur in cells;
· List some of the different organisms that make up the microbial world;
· Understand some contributions that microbes make in the world.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 60 marks (MCQ); Continuous Assessment 40 marks (In-term MCQ 30 marks; laboratory work 10 marks).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year MCQ Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) mcq.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) mcq to be taken in Autumn. The mark for Continuous Assessment is carried forward (For students failing the continuous assessment, marks awarded for laboratory practical work are carried forward. Failed Continuous Assessment MCQ examination must be retaken.).
BL1004 Physiology and Structure of Plants and Animals
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students:
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 3hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Sarah Culloty, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Dr Sarah Culloty, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To provide an outline of the structure and physiology of plants and animals in the light of adaptations to different environments.
Module Content: Plant tissue and organs; role of hormones in development; carbon and nitrogen metabolism; adaptations to abiotic and biotic stresses (practical applications). Comparative animal physiology; excretion, circulation, respiration, digestion, nervous systems, reproduction and immunity. Students will be required to undertake a small number of dissections in this module.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· describe the structure of plants and animals.
· describe the physiological processes in different groups of animals and plants.
· demonstrate dissection skills.
· carry out basic micropropagation skills.
· interpret data from physiological experiments.
· integrate the concepts of structure and function in living organisms.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 60 marks (End of Year MCQ); Continuous Assessment 40 marks (In-term MCQ 20 marks; 2 x practicals 10 marks each).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year MCQ Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40% Students must attend, undertake and submit completed written work for both of the practical sessions. Students not meeting this requirement will be disbarred from the End of Year Examination in the module and from the Autumn Supplemental examination in the module. A student will be notified when he/she has failed to fulfil the above criteria for one practical session. Opportunities to repeat missed practicals will be offered on a limited basis during the module teaching period only.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) mcq.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) mcq to be taken in Autumn. No supplemental examination unless condition(s) are met, Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (Lab practicals mark carried forward to Autumn. Repeat MCQ).
BL1005 Biodiversity, Ecology and Environmental Biology
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students:
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 3hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Sarah Culloty, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Dr Sarah Culloty, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To provide an introduction to the concepts of biodiversity and ecology and their application to environmental biology.
Module Content: Biodiversity: Plant (lower and higher), fungal and animal diversity. Ecology: niche, competition, tolerance, energy flow, nutrient cycling, terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems, biomes. Environmental Biology: pollution, disease, parasites and environmental management.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· define the characteristics of natural ecosystems in terms of their varying diversity and processes.
· describe the human exploitation of some of these natural ecosystems and the consequences of that exploitation.
· carry out simple quantitative measurements of species abundance.
· identify a number of common plants and animals and use scientific nomenclature for these species.
· evaluate the complexities of some popular environmental debates (for example water and air pollution, changes in agricultural practices, over-exploitation and climate change).
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 60 marks (End of Year MCQ); Continuous Assessment 40 marks (In-term MCQ 20 marks; 2 x practicals 10 marks each).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year MCQ Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40% Students must attend, undertake and submit completed written work for both of the practical sessions. Students not meeting this requirement will be disbarred from the End of Year Examination in the module and from the Autumn Supplemental examination in the module. A student will be notified when he/she has failed to fulfil the above criteria for one practical session. Opportunities to repeat missed practicals will be offered on a limited basis during the module teaching period only.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) mcq.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) mcq to be taken in Autumn. No supplemental examination unless condition(s) are met, Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (Lab practical marks are carried forward to Autumn. Repeat MCQ).
BL1914 Biology and the Environment
Credit Weighting: 10
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 15.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 36 x 1hr(s) Lectures (Evening); 2 x 3hr(s) Practicals (Evening); 1 x 1day(s) Fieldwork.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Sarah Culloty, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To study the diversity and functioning of living organisms and how they interact with the environment
Module Content: Origin of life on earth. Diversity of plants and animals. Cell structure and organisation; biochemistry of cell processes. Physiology of animals and plants. Genetics: how genes work, inheritance of traits. Natural selection, adaptation and evolution; speciation. Competition for resources: energy flow, biogeochemical cycles. Stress tolerance. Pollution and ecotoxicology. Factors affecting species distribution. Succession. Niche concept. Biogeography
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Distinguish organism function at the molecular, cellular, whole-organism and community levels;
· Discuss the adaptive characteristics of major groups of plants and animals;
· Discuss the factors affecting the distribution of species;
· Demonstrate an ability to collect and correctly analyse biotic data from selected aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
Assessment: Total Marks 200: End of Year Written Examination 140 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (MCQ 30 marks, 3 practical reports (10 marks each)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) (to be taken in Winter.).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (As prescribed by the department).
BL2905 Population and Community Ecology
Credit Weighting: 10
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 15, Max 50.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 9 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 5 x 1day(s) Fieldwork.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Emer Rogan, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To record and analyse the factors affecting the composition and structure of plant and animal populations.
Module Content: Sampling Terrestrial, Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. Identification of Species. Analysis of Data. Phytosociology. Vegetation Analysis and Species Diversity.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Be familiar with some procedures for the sampling and quantification of a variety of plant and animal groups in a number of different habitats, across a variety of scales;
· Discuss factors influencing abundance and distribution;
· Differentiate between precision and accuracy and identify biases in sampling techniques;
· Design sampling programmes in a number of habitat types;
· Write up field reports.
Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (4 Field Reports (50 marks each)).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (Revised reports/essays as prescribed by department).
BL2910 Plant and Animal Communities
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 15, Max 50.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures (Evening); 2 x 1day(s) Fieldwork; 2 x 3hr(s) Practicals (Evening).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof John Davenport, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To explore characteristic communities of animals and plants with particular reference to Ireland
Module Content: Ecology of Irish Terrestrial and Aquatic habitats; identification of animal and plant species
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Recognise the diversity of plant and animal communities within Western Europe, particularly Ireland.
· Acquire skills of plant and animal identification.
· Place the features of the present Irish landscape within an historical context.
· Appreciate the environmental features that shape community structures in different habitats.
· Integrate lecture information with material demonstrated in practical sessions and on fieldwork exercises.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 60 marks; Continuous Assessment 40 marks (2 Practical Reports (10 marks each) ; 2 Field Reports (10 marks each)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Winter.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 15, Max 50.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures (Evening); 1 x 3hr(s) Practicals (Evening); 1 x 3hr(s) Directed Study (Evening).
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Emer Rogan, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To consider the types of renewable resources and their exploitation.
Module Content: Culture of plant and animal populations: agriculture, aquaculture, forestry, etc. Agriculture: nature of intensive agriculture; comparison with organic, sustainable agriculture. Production and effects on environment: use of genetically manipulated crops, pollution, effects on native species. Aquaculture: principles and practice, impact on ecosystems. Forestry: principles and practice, effects of afforestation, deforestation. Exploitation of natural renewable resources: fisheries, woodland, grassland, etc
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify and consider problems associated with renewal resource exploitation
· Elaborate on Strategies to increase sustainability
· Apply knowledge to critique scientific and popular literature on this topic.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 70 marks; Continuous Assessment 30 marks (2 Paper Critiques 15 marks each).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (Resubmission of Critique of Research Paper).
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 40.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 10 x 1hr(s) Tutorials (Individual Tutorials and Library Visit, Personal Research of Literature); 4 x 1month(s) Directed Study; 1 x 3hr(s) Seminars.
Module Co-ordinator: Professor Gavin Burnell, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Professor Gavin Burnell, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To develop skills in reviewing scientific literature by researching published sources of information on a given topic and to present a written thesis and seminar.
Module Content: The literature project will involve independent and supervised research from the available literature in the Boole Library, the department and other literature sources. Students will develop their own interest in a given subject and demonstrate a depth of knowledge in the chosen topic in the production of a thesis. The project will require the student to synthesise and review the cited literature. Students will be encouraged to present their own ideas and interpretations of the literature reviewed and to draw conclusions. Students will be expected to give a short seminar on the project.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Locate and access scientific information on a given topic
· Discuss a key issue identified in the given topic
· Produce a critical review in conventional scientific format.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 X Literature Project 85 marks; Seminar 15 marks).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (resubmission of revised Literature Project, as prescribed by the Department. The mark for the seminar is carried forward.).
Credit Weighting: 10
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 6, Max 100.
Pre-requisite(s):
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 36 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 4 x 3hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Marcel A.K. Jansen, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Dr Marcel A.K. Jansen, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To review the history of evolutionary theory, to describe micro- and macro-evolution and the major transitions in plant and animal evolution including the paleobiological context and fossil evidence. To review the origins of land plants, evolutionary changes as plants moved onto land, major division of plant kingdom and functionally distinct groups of Angiosperms and to describe associated changes in the animal kingdom including the evolution of insect-plant relationships and the major evolutionary trends within the tetrapods.
Module Content: Consideration of the development of modern evolutionary concepts; discussion of evolutionary genetics and the forces involved in microevolution (mutation, selection, genetic drift, immigration and emigration); speciation; isolation mechanisms; macroevolution; and the fossil record, punctuated equilibrium and phyletic gradualism; evolution of early land plants, co-evolution and response to stress.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe micro- and macro-evolution
· Identify the forces involved
· Appraise the role of isolating mechanisms between species
· Critically evaluate the usefulness of the fossil record and of genetic data
· Integrate concepts of evolutionary processes in animals and plants from specific cases.
Assessment: Total Marks 200: End of Year Written Examination 140 marks (End of year written examination); Continuous Assessment 60 marks (2 practical reports (15 marks each); End of module MCQ (30 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by BEES).
BL3917 Conservation of Populations and Communities
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 15, Max 50.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 1 x 6hr(s) Fieldwork; 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures (Evening).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Peter Jones, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To explore approaches to and methods for management and conservation of biodiversity
Module Content: Causes of population decline: habitat destruction, over-hunting/harvesting, etc. Population genetics: effects of selection, population size, migration. Conservation of species (captive breeding, re-introduction, habitat conservation, corridors), communities. National parks. Biological pollution: effects, management of introduced species. Conservation legislation. Environmental impact assessment.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify causes of species decline
· Evaluate strengths and weaknesses of conservation options
· Illustrate complexities of management and conservation of biodiversity
· Describe relevant legislation.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 70 marks; Continuous Assessment 30 marks (1 field report 15 marks; MCQ 15 marks).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
Credit Weighting: 15
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 60.
Pre-requisite(s):
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 5 x 1month(s) Directed Study (Independent supervised research); 1 x 3hr(s) Seminars.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Ruth Ramsay, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Dr Ruth Ramsay, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To introduce students to the planning, conduct and analysis of zoological, ecological or plant science research.
Module Content: The research project involves an independent piece of scientific research in an area of interest to the student. The project can be either laboratory or field based, and will be conducted over a period of approximately 5 months (although research work can commence over the summer). The planning, design, conduct, analysis and writing up of the project will be carried out under the supervision of a member of staff.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Complete an individual field and/or laboratory study.
· Produce a written report of such a study in conventional scientific format.
· Summarise the usefulness of the findings both in written form and verbally.
· Statistically evaluate the findings.
· Integrate the results with findings of previous researchers.
Assessment: Total Marks 300: Continuous Assessment 300 marks (Research project (210 marks); Seminar (30 marks); Assessment of practical ability (60 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (in certain circumstances resubmission of a revised project will be required, as prescribed by the Department).
BL4002 ZEPS Integrated Concepts
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 50.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 10 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 3 x 3hr(s) Tutorials; 2 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 2 x 3hr(s) Seminars.
Module Co-ordinator: Professor Gavin Burnell, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, School of BEES; Professor Gavin Burnell, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: The module will help students learn and develop a range of key scientific and transferable skills relating to science communication, critical thinking and the use of Information Technology (IT). Students will be given the opportunity to practice their skills, both under supervision and independently, to further enhance their scientific training.
Module Content: The module will cover a range of aspects associated with scientific research (e.g. report writing, essay planning and writing, data presentation, PhD and project management, creating poster presentations and oral presentations). Student IT skills will be developed through the use of a variety of computer programs.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Locate, access and assess reference material
· Review the literature on a given topic
· Analyse and visually present data
· Produce a poster
· Demonstrate ability to give an oral presentation
· Produce an integrated essay on some general aspect of biology under examination conditions.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (End of module written exam (60 marks); Poster (20 marks); Seminar (10 marks); MCQ (10 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the ZEPS department).
BL4003 Biological Work Placement
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1. (Summer after the Third University Examination).
No. of Students: Min 4, Max 20.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 3 x 2hr(s) Seminars (including Briefing Sessions); 1 x 6weeks(s) Placements (Supervised Work Placement).
Module Co-ordinator: Professor Gavin Burnell, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Professor Gavin Burnell, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science; Staff, School of BEES.
Module Objective: To develop professional and transferable skills and experience by working in an enterprise relevant to the departmental degrees.
Module Content: This module will provide students with exposure to, and experience in, an enterprise relevant to the degree and to a working environment. Students will be required to work in a placement as directed by the enterprise manager and the academic supervisor. Performance will be monitored by both the employer and academic staff.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Operate in a structured working environment
· Demonstrate teamwork
· Assess and critique a work organisation
· Communicate the work experience to academic staff and student peers.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (Placement Report (50 marks); Evaluation of placement performance (10 marks); Seminar (10 marks); Placement Logbook (30 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: The mark for Continuous Assessment is carried forward (Employer evaluation of performance and seminar), Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (resubmission of report and logbook, as prescribed by the Department.).
BL6001 Teaching Cellular Biology
Credit Weighting: 15
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Max 16.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 8 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 8 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 6 x 2hr(s) Tutorials; 6 x 2hr(s) Seminars; 1 Directed Study (Directed Case Study); 6 x 2hr(s) Directed Study (in the context of professional practice in the teaching of Biology in Secondary School, associated reading assignments).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Thomas McCarthy, Department of Biochemistry.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Biochemistry, (with assistance from other relevant Departments in Biological Sciences).
Module Objective: Application of modern scientific methodology and experimental design to current frontiers of cell biology including microbiology as per syllabus.
Module Content: Scientific method; hypothesis testing; statistical significance (mean, standard deviation); bias; confounding; interpretation of data; planning experiments; introduction to practical work; Cells - the basic unit of life; eukaryotic vs prokaryotic cells; cell structure and function; passive processes of membrane transport; diffusion, osmosis and active transport; the cell cycle and cell death.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Define and apply the principles of scientific method to current frontiers of cell biology
· Describe and illustrate the complexities of cell structure and function
· Differentiate between cell types
· Explain different cell processes such as membrane transport, diffusion, osmosis and active transport
· Illustrate the cell cycle and differentiate the different stages which occur throughout
· Define the characteristics of cancer cells and the role played by proto-oncogene and oncogene in its development.
· Discuss and evaluate teaching approaches that may be used in teaching cellular biology at secondary school level.
· Perform laboratory practical work in a safe and efficient manner and compile a report of this practical work.
Assessment: Total Marks 300: End of Year Written Examination 200 marks; Continuous Assessment 100 marks (Portfolio including case study and practical work (1x 5,000-8,000 words)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40% Students must pass Continuous Assessment and End of Year Written Examination independently. For students who do not satisfy this requirement, the lower of the two marks, calculated as a percentage of the total mark for the module, will be returned.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Winter. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).
BL6002 Teaching Biochemical Components in Biology
Credit Weighting: 15
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Max 16.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 8 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 8 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 6 x 2hr(s) Tutorials; 6 x 2hr(s) Seminars; 1hr(s) Directed Study (directed case study); 6 x 2hr(s) Directed Study (in the context of professional practice in the teaching of Biology in Secondary School, associated reading assignments).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Thomas McCarthy, Department of Biochemistry.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Biochemistry, (with assistance from other relevant Departments in Biological Sciences).
Module Objective: To introduce the main classes of biomacromolecules and explain how fundamental chemical processes facilitate their organisation in biological systems.
Module Content: Chemicals of life-Macromolecules; carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids; thermodynamics, enzyme kinetics and mechanisms; overview of metabolism.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline the composition, structure and function of biological macromolecules
· Explain how fundamental processes facilitate their organization in biological systems
· Describe the special role and processes of enzymes in cell metabolism.
· Discuss and evaluate teaching approaches that may be used in teaching biomacromolecules at secondary school level.
· Perform laboratory practical work in a safe and efficient manner and compile a report of this practical work.
Assessment: Total Marks 300: End of Year Written Examination 200 marks; Continuous Assessment 100 marks (Portfolio including case study and practical work (1x5,000 - 8,000 words)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40% Students must pass Continuous Assessment and End of Year Written Examination independently. For students who do not satisfy this requirement, the lower of the two marks, calculated as a percentage of the total mark for the module, will be returned.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Winter. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).
BL6003 Teaching Genetics and Biotechnology
Credit Weighting: 15
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Max 16.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 8 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 8 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 6 x 2hr(s) Tutorials; 6 x 2hr(s) Seminars; 1 Directed Study (directed case study); 6 x 2hr(s) Directed Study (in the context of professional practice in the teaching of Biology in Secondary School, associated reading assignments).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Thomas McCarthy, Department of Biochemistry.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Biochemistry, (with assistance from other relevant Departments in Biological Sciences).
Module Objective: To describe basic molecular mechanisms underlying heredity, including replication, transcription and recombination and provide an overview of modern genetics and its contemporary relevance and topicality.
Module Content: DNA and its role in heredity; structure and composition of DNA; DNA replication; DNA proof-reading and repair; genotype to phenotype; genome projects; genetic mutations; isolation of DNA; DNA fingerprinting; recombinant DNA technology; biotechnology.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the basic molecular mechanisms underlying heredity, including replication, transcription and recombination
· Examine developments in biotechnology and nanotechnology
· Debate contemporary issues related to genetics, biotechnology and nanotechnology.
· Discuss and evaluate teaching approaches that may be used in teaching genetics and biotechnology at secondary school level.
· Perform laboratory practical work in a safe and efficient manner and compile a report of this practical work.
Assessment: Total Marks 300: End of Year Written Examination 200 marks; Continuous Assessment 100 marks (Portfolio including case study and practical work (1x 5,000- 8,000 words)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40% Students must pass Continuous Assessment and End of Year Written Examination independently. For students who do not satisfy this requirement, the lower of the two marks, calculated as a percentage of the total mark for the module, will be returned.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Winter. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).
BL6004 Teaching Systems Biology
Credit Weighting: 15
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Max 16.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 8 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 8 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 6 x 2hr(s) Tutorials; 6 x 2hr(s) Seminars; 1 Directed Study (directed case study); 6 x 2hr(s) Directed Study (in the context of professional practice in the teaching of Biology in Secondary School, associated reading assignments).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Thomas McCarthy, Department of Biochemistry.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Biochemistry, (with assistance from other relevant Departments in Biological Sciences).
Module Objective: To provide a novel approach to teaching the organisation and functions of the main physiological systems of animals and plants.
Module Content: The vascular, digestive, endocrine, nervous, sensory and muscoloskeletal systems; respiration, photosynthesis and immunology.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify the organizational structure of animal systems
· Describe the detailed structure and function of each human system
· Explain the specific functioning of the nervous system
· Discuss and evaluate teaching approaches that may be used in teaching systems biology at secondary school level
· Identify the integration of biological systems in relation to the learning process
· Perform laboratory practical work in a safe and efficient manner and compile a report of this practical work.
Assessment: Total Marks 300: End of Year Written Examination 200 marks; Continuous Assessment 100 marks (Portfolio including case study and practical work (1 x 5,000 - 8,000 words)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40% Students must pass Continuous Assessment and End of Year Written Examination independently. For students who do not satisfy this requirement, the lower of the two marks, calculated as a percentage of the total mark for the module, will be returned.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Winter. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).
Credit Weighting: 15
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Max 16.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 8 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 8 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 6 x 2hr(s) Tutorials; 6 x 2hr(s) Seminars; 1 Directed Study (drected case study); 6 x 2hr(s) Directed Study (in the context of professional practice in the teaching of Biology in Secondary School, associated reading assignments).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Thomas McCarthy, Department of Biochemistry.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Biochemistry, (with assistance from other relevant Departments in Biological Sciences).
Module Objective: To describe new approaches to teaching plant science. The module will involve a study of the basic principles necessary for understanding plant structure and function, including the biochemical and biophysical processes of plant cells.
Module Content: Plant structure, transport, vegetative and sexual reproduction, photosynthesis and plant molecular biology.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the structure and functions of plant systems
· Identify the biochemical and physical processes in plant cells
· Evaluate the unique response systems in plants and their contribution to human scientific development
· Describe and conduct plant tissue culturing
· Discuss and evaluate teaching approaches that may be used in teaching plant biology at secondary school level
· Perform laboratory practical work in a safe and efficient manner and compile a report of this practical work.
Assessment: Total Marks 300: End of Year Written Examination 200 marks; Continuous Assessment 100 marks (Portfolio including case study and practical work (1 x 5,000 8,000 words)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40% Students must pass Continuous Assessment and End of Year Written Examination independently. For students who do not satisfy this requirement, the lower of the two marks, calculated as a percnetage of the total mark for the module, will be returned.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Winter. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).
BL6006 Teaching Ecology and Population Biology
Credit Weighting: 15
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Max 16.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 8 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 8 x 2hr(s) Practicals; 6 x 2hr(s) Tutorials; 6 x 2hr(s) Seminars; 1 Directed Study (directed case study); 6 x 2hr(s) Directed Study (in the context of professional practice in the teaching of Biology in Secondary School, associated reading assignments).
Module Co-ordinator: Prof Thomas McCarthy, Department of Biochemistry.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Biochemistry, (with assistance from other relevant Departments in Biological Sciences).
Module Objective: To provide an overview of aspects of biology at the population level (macrobiology).
Module Content: Mechanisms of ecosystems, demographics, food production, natural resources, habitats, recycling of nutrients via the carbon and nitrogen cycle, population dynamics, pollution, conservation, waste disposal and management.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Highlight and discuss the inter-relationships that exist between organisms and between organisms and their environment
· Outline and examine the different mechanisms of ecosystems
· Contribute to the debate on contemporary ecological issues
· Discuss and evaluate teaching approaches that may be used in teaching ecology and plant biology at secondary school level
· Perform laboratory practical work in a safe and efficient manner and compile a report of this practical work.
Assessment: Total Marks 300: End of Year Written Examination 200 marks; Continuous Assessment 100 marks (Portfolio including case study and practial work (1 x 5,000 - 8,000 words)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40% Students must pass Continuous Assessment and End of Year Written Examination independently. For students who do not satisfy this requirement, the lower of the two marks, calculated as a percnetage of the total mark for the module, will be returned.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Winter. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the Department).
BL6010 Characteristics of the Marine Environment
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 1 x 3hr(s) Practicals; 1 x 3hr(s) Seminars; 2 x 3hr(s) Workshops (Scientific writing, statistics, presentation skills.).
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Sarah Culloty, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: This module will examine the main characteristics of the marine environment and its key biological processes.
Module Content: This module will examine the physical and chemical properties of the marine environment, the key principles of oceanography, plankton and productivity of the oceans, as well as examine the biotic and abiotic components of the main habitats. The module will also include two workshops on scientific writing and statistics as well seminar presentation techniques.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the physical and chemical properties of the marine environment.
· Discuss the key principles of oceanography.
· Interpret how variations in primary productivity may affect biotic organisms.
· Summarise the biotic and abiotic components of the main habitats.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 70 marks; Continuous Assessment 30 marks (Seawater Chemistry practical (10 marks); Seminar (10 marks); Essay (10 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Winter.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by BEES).
Credit Weighting: 10
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 36 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 1day(s) Fieldwork (Cetaceans and Birds); 2 x 3hr(s) Practicals (population viability analysis; distance sampling).
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Emer Rogan, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To describe the biology of marine megafauna (seabirds, shorebirds, marine mammals, marine reptiles and giant fish) in the context of interaction with human activities and global climate change
Module Content: The module will be concerned with the life histories, biogeography, physiology and foraging of the various megafaunal groups. Surveying, population trends and problems of conservation will be highlighted. Interactions of these charismatic groups with fisheries, aquaculture, climate change and pollution by light, sound including recreational disturbance, and chemicals will be described. About half of the module will be devoted to birds, the rest to the other megafaunal groups.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Recall basic features of megafaunal life histories
· Distinguish problems of population estimation amongst the megafaunal groups
· Compare vulnerabilities of megafaunal species to anthropogenic influences
· Integrate directed reading with lecture information and material demonstrated in practical sessions.
Assessment: Total Marks 200: End of Year Written Examination 140 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (3 Practical Reports 20 marks each).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Winter.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by BEES).
BL6013 Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture
Credit Weighting: 10
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 36 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 5 x 2.5hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Professor Gavin Burnell, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To describe the biology, capture and culture of the main fish and shellfish species and the environmental impact of some of these activities.
Module Content: The module will examine in detail the role of fisheries and aquaculture on a global scale, describe the biology of the main temperate species, show the relationship between biology and capture/management and culture of these groups and consider the impacts of fisheries and aquaculture on the environment. The module will also consider the problems of water quality and disease in aquaculture and highlight potential methods of monitoring and control.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Recall basic features of fish and shellfish biology and life histories
· Distinguish different methods of fishing and capture
· Compare different fisheries management approaches
· Discuss the main environmental impacts of fisheries and aquaculture and possible mitigation methods
· Integrate directed reading with lecture information and material demonstrated in practical sessions.
Assessment: Total Marks 200: End of Year Written Examination 140 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (Minor Practical Report (15 marks); 1 Major Fish practical report (30 marks); Essay (15 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Winter.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by BEES).
BL6014 Marine Fieldwork and Survey Techniques
Credit Weighting: 10
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.
No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 3 x 1day(s) Fieldwork; 1 x 1weeks(s) Fieldwork (Residential Fieldcourse); 10 x 1hr(s) Lectures (Associated with the Fieldcourse and day field trips); 2 x 2hr(s) Seminars (Associated with the Fieldcourse).
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Robert McAllen, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To provide students with fieldwork sampling and survey skills in a range of marine habitats.
Module Content: Students will gain experience of sampling and survey techniques used in estuarine, intertidal, subtidal and aboard research vessels. Sample processing, identification skills and data analysis will also be included in the various course components.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate competency in different quantitative and qualitative field survey techniques used in estuarine, intertidal and subtidal marine habitats.
· Employ survey methodologies and sample collection processes aboard research vessels.
· Apply sample processing and identification skills across the various taxonomic groups.
· Present findings in research seminars to peers and colleagues.
Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (2 Fieldwork Reports (80 marks each); 1 group assessment (40 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by BEES).
BL6015 Practical Marine Workplace Skills
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2. (Two week course run in early January at the National Maritime College of Ireland).
No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.
Pre-requisite(s):
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 2 x 1weeks(s) Lectures (and associated Practical components at National Maritime College).
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Robert McAllen, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science (With staff from National Maritime College of Ireland in Ringaskiddy).
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: The aim of this two week module is to provide a number of professionally accredited workplace certifications in Sea Survival, Marine Radio use, Small Boat Handling and Occupational First Aid necessary for work in the Marine Environment
Module Content: This module will utilise the expertise of the National Maritime College Of Ireland to provide a broad range of training courses in Sea Survival, Marine Radio use, small boat handling and occupational first aid and provide related approved accreditations for those successfully passing the courses.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Apply fundamental safety and sea survival techniques whilst working at sea
· Demonstrate practical VHF alerting and marine radio procedures and techniques used in Distress, Urgency, Safety and Routine situations
· Demonstrate practical and theoretical skills on safe practices whilst coxing a small craft
· Apply practical first aid skills in the workplace including CPR.
Assessment: Continuous Assessment: Professionally Certified courses run by National Maritime College of Ireland in Ringaskiddy.
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessement.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: Pass standard as set by the Instructors on each of the individual courses. Assessed on a Pass /Fail basis.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: No Supplemental Examination.
BL6016 Marine Ecology and Conservation
Credit Weighting: 10
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 36 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 3hr(s) Practicals; 2 x 3hr(s) Seminars.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Ruth Ramsay, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To provide an in-depth knowledge of a range of marine biomes and their conservation
Module Content: Biodiversity of key benthic and pelagic marine biomes on a global scale including temperate, polar and tropical. This will include both hard and soft sediments e.g. coral reefs, mangroves, temperate rocky shores, estuaries, open water and deep sea habitats. Conservation in the broad sense at all levels including goods and ecological services, sustainability, protected areas, natural and anthropogenic threats, invasive species and ecotourism.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe the characteristics and biodiversity of the major marine biomes
· Demonstrate a comprehension of the totality of the relationships that govern the natural working of marine biomes
· Demonstrate a comprehension of the actions of human use on natural marine biomes
· Apply the knowledge gained to suggest conservation solutions to case studies of marine biome exploitation
· Appraise the complexity and interconnectedness of marine biomes and their sustainable use and the relevant skills so as to be able to recommend workable solutions for their conservation.
Assessment: Total Marks 200: End of Year Written Examination 140 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (Case Study Report (40 marks); Seminar (20 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Spring.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (as prescribed by the department).
BL6017 Marine Biology Research Project
Credit Weighting: 30
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2. (and during Summer months).
No. of Students: Min 6, Max 25.
Pre-requisite(s):
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 4 x 1month(s) Directed Study (Research project under supervision of ZEPS staff member).
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Sarah Culloty, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To instruct students in the efficient planning, conduct and analysis of marine biology research.
Module Content: The research project involves an independent piece of scientific research in an area of marine biology of interest to the student. The project can be either laboratory or field based or a mixture of both, and will be conducted over a period of approximately 4 months. The planning and design, conduct and analysis of the project will be carried out under the supervision of a ZEPS member of staff. There will be opportunities for project placements at overseas universities (e.g. through the EU Erasmus scheme).
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Assemble and summarise scientific literature in a chosen topic
· Design a research project
· Demonstrate practical skills required to carry out marine biology research
· Evaluate and interpret research results
· Prepare a research thesis.
Assessment: Total Marks 600: Continuous Assessment 600 marks (Research Project Thesis (480 marks); Seminar (60 marks); assessment of practical ability (60 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 50%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: No Supplemental Examination.
BL6019 Ecological Applications of Geographical Information Systems
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.
No. of Students: Min 5, Max 40.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s):
Teaching Methods: 5 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 5 x 3hr(s) Practicals; 10 x 1hr(s) Directed Study.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Robert McAllen, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To develop practical skills in the application of the Geographical Information System (GIS) to data integration, analyses and production of the output mapping products to meet ecological scientific needs.
Module Content: GIS applications; mapping principles; geospatial data types; data modelling; metadata; database design; GIS data manipulation including integration, analyses and interpretation; data visualisation; map production; webGIS; case studies of GIS applications in terrestrial and marine environments.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Independently produce desktop GIS projects using ArcGIS 9.x (ESRI) software, integrate and manipulate data, perform basic analyses and modelling and produce good quality maps.
· Obtain essential background knowledge necessary to meet their immediate scientific needs and to be able to continue improving their GIS skills through shown self-educational pathways
· To independently plan a research mapping campaign (data acquisition) in marine or terrestrial environments.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (Practical exercise (30 marks); Written Assignment (30 marks); In class Test (40 marks)).
Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.
BL6020 Genetics and the Marine Environment
Credit Weighting: 5
Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.
No. of Students: Max 20.
Pre-requisite(s): None
Co-requisite(s): None
Teaching Methods: 18 x 1hr(s) Lectures; 2 x 3hr(s) Practicals.
Module Co-ordinator: Dr Robert McAllen, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science.
Module Objective: To introduce students to the application of genetics to the understanding and sustainable use of the marine environment
Module Content: Students will be provided with an introduction to the methods of collection and analysis of genetic information on marine organisms, including the latest genomic techniques. The biological diversity revealed by these techniques, and technological interventions they enable, will be surveyed. Work will focus on the application of this information to understanding fundamental aspects of the marine environment and its sustainable use with examples from oceanography, fisheries, aquaculture, biotechnology and conservation.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate knowledge of the basic methods of analysis of genetic data.
· Describe key aspects of genetic diversity of the marine environment and the major processes influencing it.
· Demonstrate an understanding of genetic technologies and their application.
· Critically evaluate genetic information and its relevance to issues concerning the marine environment.
Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 70 marks; Continuous Assessment 30 marks (Essay (15 marks); Practical report (15 Marks)).
Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.
Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.
Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.
End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Spring.
Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.
