Genomic Technologies and Basic Informatics

Module overview

This module explores the state-of-the-art genomics techniques used for DNA sequencing (e.g. targeted approaches, whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing) and RNA sequencing, together with current technologies routinely used to investigate genomic variation in both clinical and research settings. The module will cover the fundamental principles of informatics and bioinformatics applied to genomics. Theoretical sessions will be coupled with practical assignments of analysing and annotating predefined data sets. A comprehensive introduction to the functional interpretation of genomic data will be included. Students will also learn about the strategies employed to evaluate pathogenicity of variants for reporting and acquire the skills to analyse genomic data in a graphical user interface.

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

A variety of learning and teaching methods will be adopted to promote a wide range of skills and meet the differing learning styles of the group. Teaching will include seminars, practical demonstrations, discussions and exercises surrounding interpretation of data and clinical scenarios, and specialist lectures given by a range of academic and health care professionals. This will ensure a breadth and depth of perspective, giving a good balance between background theories and principles and practical experience. Off-site independent learning will be supported through our virtual learning environment, Blackboard.

Study time
Type	Hours
Teaching	35
Independent Study	130
Assessment tasks	35
Total study time	200

Resources & Reading list

Internet Resources

Assessment

Assessment strategy

The assessment for the module provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes. In addition to the summative assessments, during the course of the module there will be opportunities to obtain feedback in the form of unassessed, formative activities. The pass mark for this module is 50%; if you have failed the module, the Board of Examiners may offer you the opportunity to submit work at the next referral (resit) opportunity. This referral will be a resubmission of the initial report, improved incorporating feedback. The final module mark will be capped at 50%.

Formative

This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.

Workshop activities

Assessment Type: Formative
Feedback: Individual feedback in sessions.
Final Assessment: No
Group Work: No

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Data analysis project	100%

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Data analysis project	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External