Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

Stage 2 semester 1 of BSc/MSci Biomedical Sciences degree; to be completed prior to semester 2 in Monash

Co Requisite Comment

The 3 modules are approved for study as a combination to satisfy B940/B900 programme learning outcomes.

Aims

This module will provide insights into the molecular mechanisms that mediate human diseases and the specific biotechnologies used to facilitate diagnosis and treatment. The module offers an opportunity for students to build employability skills for graduates through group work and emphasising critical thinking, research skills and communication skills in the context of biomedical research.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module will provide insights into the molecular mechanisms that mediate human diseases and the specific biotechnologies used to facilitate diagnosis and treatment.
Relevant areas studied will generally include a number of topics related to pharmacology, cancer, cardiovascular disease, development and stem cells, infection and immunity, metabolic disease and obesity, and neuroscience.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1.       Integrate, apply and build upon knowledge from previous core units in the study of the molecular mechanisms and defects that cause human disease, including how developmental errors and gene abnormalities may lead to abnormalities in protein structure and function.
2.       Discuss and evaluate the role of molecular techniques in the diagnosis of human diseases and the design of targeted therapies or specific treatments.
3.       Explain and predict the principles of pharmacokinetics and how these can influence the therapeutic use of drugs.
4.       Explore and analyse how patient factors (including genetics) can lead to inter-individual variation in responses to drugs.

Intended Skill Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1.       Describe and apply skills required to inform biomedical research activities.
2.       Synthesise, integrate and summarise information from fundamental principles and techniques in biomedical sciences, then apply it to broader contexts.
3.       Work effectively and collaboratively in small teams and evaluate peer and self-performance.
4.       Present data and scientific ideas, in oral, written and visual forms using scientific language or plain English as appropriate.
5. Compile a reflective log to inform and develop a career plan.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures will be used to convey key information to students with group work activities reinforcing the theory and applying that knowledge to provide solutions to problems. During the group activities emphasis is placed on critical thinking, research skills and on communication skills in the context of biomedical research. The weekly workshops will facilitate further discussion and reflection of learning.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Mid-semester exam provides the opportunity for student to gauge their progress and understanding, highlighting areas to revise more rigorously before the final exam. The final exam assesses the student’s knowledge and understanding across the breadth of the module.
Weekly worksheets use used a vehicle for students to reflect on their progress and compile this into a reflective log. The group work will allow assessment of collaboration skills to resolve a problem and oral presentation skills which form the portfolio.

General Notes

N/A