Module overview
The students will be expected to carry out an in-depth literature review into a biological concept or topic in semester 1, and to then design an innovative educational activity to convey their research to groups of people in semester 2.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Design a means of assessment to gauge the effectiveness of delivering the activity.
- Appreciate the requirements of designing an activity to convey a scientific concept to a school-going audience.
- Deliver an activity in an engaging and motivational manner.
- Synthesise information from several different sources.
- Effectively communicate a body of scientific research via oral presentation
- Understand the processes involved in designing such an activity.
- Design, conduct and write a critical review of the literature under supervision.
- Present a coherent written description of your topic in your own words and style.
Syllabus
This module gives students the opportunity to research a topic within the field of biological sciences and present their findings through both a written report and the delivery of an educational activity. These activities take place in settings such as Marwell Zoo and Peter Symonds College. At Marwell Zoo, topics may range from hominoid evolution to habitat loss. At Peter Symonds College, students can explore a variety of subjects offered within Biological Sciences at Southampton. In both settings, students learn to design and deliver a biological concept to an age-appropriate audience in an innovative and engaging way.
The core research themes in Biological Sciences at Southampton include: Microbiology (e.g., antimicrobial resistance, phage therapy); Neuroscience (e.g., neurodegenerative diseases); Cell and Developmental Biology (e.g., immunology, cancer biology); Molecular and Precision Biosciences; Ecology and Evolution (e.g., microbial adaptation to climate change); and Plants and Food Security.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
• Seminars/workshops from academics and/or other professionals (Marwell or School).
• Tutorials on science, education and communication.
• Verbal and written feedback.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 25 |
| Independent Study | 275 |
| Total study time | 300 |
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Practical skills assessment | 25% |
| Design Report | 15% |
| Diligence and Initiative | 10% |
| Written reflection of Practice | 10% |
| Literature review | 40% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|