LONDON METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY
Module Specification template
Section One: ABOUT THE MODULE
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Module title
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Module code
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Module level and credit rating
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Faculty
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School/Subject Discipline
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Teaching locations
northnorth
Introduction to Molecular Biology and Genetics
BM7108DL
Level 7Level 7
1010
Life SciencesLife Sciences
School of Human SciencesSchool of Human Sciences
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Teaching period
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Pattern of attendance
Required prior learning
Module description
BM7108DL
Introduction to Molecular Biology and Genetics
This module provides information and guidance to faciliatate an indepth understanding and knowledge
of the theory and practical applications of molecular biology and genetics. It explains the underlying
mechanisms of molecular biology and enables these ideas to be expanded to the understanding of
human health and disease.
Semester: Autumn, Spring, Summer (10 credit)
Required prior Learning:
Assessment: Quizzes (200 words) (20%), reflective learning log (800 words) (40%), coursework (1000
words) (40%)
Module aims
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance
Agency’s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. To provide, through in depth study,
knowledge and understanding of the theory and practical applications of molecular biology and genetic,
reinforce analytical, evaluative and communication skills. The module will also enable students to
research a topical issue in depth and present it at an appropriate level and reflect on the topics studied
and their application in biomedical practice.
Module learning outcomes
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On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the processes of mutation detection by molecular biological
techniques and show an understanding of the consequences of various mutations and polymorphisms
in health and disease.
2. Apply critical thinking to the analysis and solve molecular biological and genetic problems and show
an appreciation of current and evolving concepts in molecular biology and genetics specifically gene
therapy and forensic applications.
3. Demonstrate through the reflective learning journal that they have reflected on their own
performance as an independent professional learner.
Indicative syllabus – for full details see section C in Module Booklet
Review of the basis of molecular biology and genetics.
Study the vast developments in genomes and genetics
Mechanics of DNA replication, transcription and translation.
Genetic technology, DNA in forensics and genetics in cancer.
Indicative bibliography and key on-line resources – for full details see section D in Module Booklet
Griffiths AJF, Wessler SR, Carroll SB, Doebley J. (2011) Introduction to Genetic Analysis 10th Ed. WH
Freeman.
Hartl DL. (2011) Essential Genetics: A Genomics Perspective 5th Ed. Jones and Bartlett.
Jorde LB, Carey JC, Bamshad MJ. (2010) Medical Genetics 4th Ed. Mosby.
Lewis R (2010) Human Genetics, Concepts and Applications. 9th Ed. McGraw-Hill.
Lodish H, Berk A, Zipursky SL, Matsudaira P, Baltimore D, Darnell J. (2008) Molecular Cell Biology 5 th Ed.
WH. Freeman
Read A, Donnai D. (2010) New Clinical Genetics (2nd edit). Scion.
Reed R, Holmes D, Weyers J, Jones A. (2007) Practical Skills in Biomolecular Sciences, 3rd Ed. Pearson
Gibson G, Muse SV. (2009) A Primer of Genome Science 3rd Ed. Sinauer Associates.
Strachan T, Read A. (2011) Human Molecular Genetics 4th Ed. Garland Science.
Sudbery P, Sudbery I. (2009) Human Molecular Genetics 3rd Ed. Pearson.
Young ID. (2010) Medical Genetics 2nd Ed. Oxford University Press.
Learning and Teaching strategy for the module including approach to blended learning, students’ study
responsibilities and opportunities for reflective learning/pdp
Information pertaining to the subject matter will be presented through an integrated programme of
lectures and supporting exercises, together with some use of a problem-based learning approach and
the guided use of student-centred learning resources. Lectures will be used to provide a conceptual
framework. Student centred assignments will enable students to reinforce and expand their
knowledge, and develop subject specific skills and competence.
Indicative learning and teaching hours for the module. Learning hours comprise face-to-face and virtual
contact hours plus self-managed and directed learning and time spent on placements (where relevant).
Method
Description and percentage of learning hours
Scheduled learning and teaching activities
Guided independent study
100 (100%)
TOTAL LEARNING HOURS FOR THE
100
MODULE
Assessment strategy
The module will be formatively assessed by in-course online quizzes (20%) and two coursework
components. A reflective learning log (800 words) (40%) and a written assignment (40%; 1000 words).
Criteria for assessment will include an understanding of the subject matter; an ability, both orally and
written, to explain, describe and discuss the work; completeness and conciseness of written reports
and essays with emphasis upon critical ability and scientific rigour. To pass the module students need
to achieve a minimum aggregate mark of 50%.
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Component
Learning outcomes
Quizzes
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Reflective learning log
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Written assignment
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Arrangements for formative and summative feedback
Written feedback on the coursework will be given at the end of the module
Description of assessment items
Assessment
Method
Practical
ExamPractical
Exam
CourseworkCour
sework
CourseworkCour
sework
Description of Item
%
weighting
Week
Due
On-line Quizzes (200 words)
20
Reflective learning log (800 words)
40
12
Written assignment (ECA) (1000 words)
40
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Section Two: FACULTY USE
20 Nominated External Examiner
21 Nominated Module Leader at time of approval
22 Courses to which this module contributes and
whether Core or Option
If not pass on aggregate,
explain what is required to
pass the module
Dr Una Fairbrother
Section Three: OFFICIAL USE AND CODES – responsibility for completion is as indicated
23 Original date of approval (QEU)
24 Module approved to run from (QEU)
25 Revision date (specify cohort) (QEU)
26 Module specification version number (QEU)
27 SITS Mark Scheme (Academic Registry)
28 Subject Standards Board Name (Academic
Registry)