UNIVERSITY OF KENT
SECTION 1: MODULE SPECIFICATIONS
1.
Title of the module
BI854 Fungi as Human Pathogens
2.
School or partner institution which will be responsible for management of the module
Biosciences
3.
Start date of the module
September 2014
4.
The number of students expected to take the module
12-30
5.
Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module and consultation with other
relevant Schools and Faculties regarding the withdrawal
None
6.
The level of the module (e.g. Certificate [C], Intermediate [I], Honours [H] or Postgraduate [M])
M
7.
The number of credits and the ECTS value which the module represents
15 (7.5 ECTS)
8.
Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern)
Spring
9.
Prerequisite and co-requisite modules
None
10. The programmes of study to which the module contributes
MSc Infectious Diseases
11. The intended subject specific learning outcomes
11.1. a systematic understanding of and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new
insights related to fungal pathogens (Programme outcomes A1, A2, A3).
11.2. a comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to fungal pathogen research (B1,
B2, C1).
11.3. understanding how our current knowledge impacts upon future research to combat the
spread of fungal infections (Programme outcomes A4, A5)
11.4. an ability to critically evaluate current research in the field of fungal pathogens and to
evaluate methodologies/research findings and develop critiques of them (Programme outcomes
B2, C5).
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
12. The intended generic learning outcomes
12.1. Communication: ability to organise information clearly, present information in oral and written
form, adapt presentation for different audiences (Programme outcome D1)
12.2. Analytical skills: interpretation of data, marshalling of information from published sources,
critical evaluation of own research and that of others (Programme outcome B2)
12.3. Team work: the ability to work both independently and as part of a research group using
peer support, diplomacy and collective responsibility (Programme outcome D4)
12.4. Self-motivation and independence: time and workload management in order to meet
personal targets and imposed deadlines (Programme outcome D3)
12.5. Information technology: use of appropriate technology to retrieve, analyse and present
scientific information (Programme outcome B3)
13. A synopsis of the curriculum
The module aims to develop an in depth understanding of fungal pathogens, based around
lectures and interactive workshops. Key topics include severe, recurrent and chronic fungal
diseases (such as cryptococcal meningitis, candidiasis and chronic pulmonary aspergillosis).and
molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to anti-fungal drugs. The module will involve a
rotation of seminars covering key theoretical concepts, mechanistic insights into host:pathogen
interactions, and discussion of practical approaches to combat the spread of fungal infections.
These will be accompanied by interactive workshops wherein students will analyse, present and
discuss the relevant research literature. The students will gain experience in scientific design,
literature analysis, scientific communication and the analysis and interpretation of complex
experimental data.
14. Indicative Reading List
The reading list will be research articles, which will be used to drive a case-study based approach
to learning. Students will be provided with their own copies of this reading material, but in some
cases they will be set tasks for receiving appropriate journal articles to which we already have
access.
15. Learning and Teaching Methods, including the nature and number of contact hours and the total
study hours which will be expected of students, and how these relate to achievement of the intended
module learning outcomes
Subject specific knowledge will be delivered in seminars supported by reference to the
recommended scientific literature. Problem solving skills will be developed in discussion sessions
and will be based on the understanding and interpretation of experimental data. (Module learning
outcomes 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4)
Generic skills will be developed in discussion sessions, presentations, outside reading and
exam preparation (Module learning outcomes 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.4, 12.5).
Contact hours 28:
Seminars/discussion sessions (8x3h).
Journal club presentations (1 h).
Laboratory workshop: (3h).
Self-study (122):
Preparation for seminars/workshops (50 hours),
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
Laboratory workshop (12 hours)
Presentation (15 hours)
Revision and exam preparation (45 hours)
16. Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended module learning
outcomes
Methods:
Article evaluation worksheets (short worksheets to be used for preparation of weekly in-class
discussions) 10%. Module learning outcomes 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 12.2, 12.4.
Oral presentation (journal club-style presentation) 25%. Module learning outcomes 11.1, 11.2,
11.3, 11.4, 12.1, 12.4, 12.5.
Examination (2 x 1h essays): 40%. Module learning outcomes 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 12.1, 12.2,
12.4.
Laboratory workshop. Group and individual work to investigate the modes of anti-fungal drug
action: 25%. Module learning outcomes: 11.2, 11.3, 12.2, 12.3, & 12.5.
17. Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space
This module will feature small-group workshops, journal clubs and seminars rather than
traditional lectures, and emphasis will be placed on self-directed reading and study.
18. The School recognises and has embedded the expectations of current disability equality legislation,
and supports students with a declared disability or special educational need in its teaching. Within
this module we will make reasonable adjustments wherever necessary, including additional or
substitute materials, teaching modes or assessment methods for students who have declared and
discussed their learning support needs. Arrangements for students with declared disabilities will be
made on an individual basis, in consultation with the University’s/Collaborative Partner’s (delete as
applicable) disability/dyslexia support service, and specialist support will be provided where needed.
19. Campus(es) where module will be delivered:
Canterbury
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
SECTION 2: MODULE IS PART OF A PROGRAMME OF STUDY IN A UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
Statement by the School Director of Learning and Teaching/School Director of Graduate Studies
(as appropriate): "I confirm I have been consulted on the above module proposal and have given advice
on the correct procedures and required content of module proposals"
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Director of Learning and Teaching/Director of
Graduate Studies (delete as applicable)
Date
…………………………………………………
Print Name
Statement by the Head of School: "I confirm that the School has approved the introduction of the
module and, where the module is proposed by School staff, will be responsible for its resourcing"
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Head of School
Date
…………………………………………………….
Print Name
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