Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module aims to:

•       introduce students to the fundamental principles of cell biology and biodiversity
•       explore the biophysical chemistry of living systems, including the roles of cell membranes
•       consider the specialised function of specific cell types and communication within and between cells

Outline Of Syllabus

Lectures and seminars cover the following topics:

Biodiversity: the place and relationship that humans have in and with life on Earth.

Cells: basic eukaryotic cell structure; function of membrane proteins; intracellular sorting and transport; cytoskeleton and cell movement; cell growth and division.

Transport: The mammalian cell and its environment; types of membrane transport.

Excitable Cells: membrane potentials; the action potential; signal transmission at the neuromuscular junction; muscle contraction; functional neural pathways. Biophysics: life based in water; reactions in water; life and growth is limited by resource; acids and bases; chemical energy and electrical energy.

Cell Signalling: general principles of cell communication; signalling through cell surface receptors; regulation of signalling pathways.

Endocrinology: introduction to endocrinology; the hypothalamus and pituitary; the thyroid gland and control of metabolism; the adrenal glands and gonads.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will be able to:

1.       Illustrate how humans relate to life on Earth
2.       Identify the main features of cells and indicate their significance for cell biology
3.       Provide examples of how biophysical chemistry underpins cell biology
4.       Compare different mechanisms for intra- and inter-cellular communication

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of the module students should be able to:

1. Independently locate relevant information about Cell Biology via the library, and appropriate online sources, to support and reinforce material taught in lectures (information literacy)

2. Work with peers in small groups to solve Cell Biology related problems in seminars (problem solving & collaboration)

3. Effectively communicate knowledge of Cell Biology, obtained from lectures and private study, to peers and staff during seminars (oral and interpersonal communication skills)

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

1. Lectures will define the scope of the course and communicate basic knowledge as a basis for further study.

2. Seminars will encourage students to develop their understanding of the subject and interpersonal communication skills. They provide an opportunity for students to ask questions and exchange ideas in a small group setting. Skills practiced include critical thinking, numeracy, communication & team working.

3. Private study is used for self-directed learning and includes: reading lecture notes and texts; preparation for seminars; using learning resources. Skills practiced include critical thinking, active learning, numeracy, planning and organisation and independence.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The end of module examination assesses knowledge and understanding of the course material. The formative assessment will help students assess their knowledge and understanding of course material as well as familiarise students with the format of the end of module exam.

FMS Schools offering Semester One modules available as ‘Study Abroad’ will, where required, provide an alternative assessment time for examinations that take place after the Christmas vacation. Coursework with submissions dates after the Christmas vacation will either be submitted at an earlier date or at the same time remotely.

General Notes

Original Handbook text: