LONDON METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY
Module Specification template
Section One: ABOUT THE MODULE
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2
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Module title
Module code
Module level and credit rating
Introduction to Clinical Biochemistry
BM7103DL
Level 7Level 7
Life SciencesLife Sciences
1010
4 Faculty
5 School/Subject Discipline
6 Teaching locations northnorth
School of Human SciencesSchool of Human Sciences
7 Teaching period
8 Pattern of attendance
9 Required prior learning
10 Module description
BM7103DL
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Introduction to Clinical Biochemistry
This module provides experience, knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of clinical biochemistry. It explores the rationale for laboratory testing in routine and specialised investigations, the methodologies used and quality assurance
Semester: Autumn, Spring, Summer (10 credit)
Required prior Learning:
Assessment: Quizzes (200 words) (20%), reflective learning log (800 words) (40%), coursework (1000 words) (40%)
11 Module aims
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance
Agency’s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
Provide a review of the operation of the clinical biochemistry laboratory and its contribution to screening, diagnosis and monitoring. Develop detailed knowledge and understanding of the rationale for clinical biochemical analyses, their principles, and their application to the detection and assessment of selected disease states. To reinforce analytical, evaluative and communication skills. To research a topical issue in depth and present it at an appropriate level. To reflect on the topics studied and their application in biomedical practice.
12 Module learning outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the principles and practice of chemical pathology
2. Execute specified analyses with due attention to QC, evaluate obtained and researched experimental data and communicate conclusions effectively
3. Communicate information, ideas, problems and solutions to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
4. Produce reasoned discourse on a topical issue and show an awareness of the research interface and developing technologies
13 Indicative syllabus – for full details see section C in Module Booklet
The scope and potential of Clinical Biochemistry. Sampling, storage and safety with particular reference to whole blood; lipaemic and icteric plasma (or serum) and urine samples.
Methodology and instrumentation: qualitative and quantitative determination of analytes by enzymatic, immunochemical and chemical techniques; manual and automated (process control) methods. Near Patient Testing. Internal and external quality control. Definitive and reference methods. Reference ranges and interpretation of results.
Core investigations: Routine and emerging diagnostics. Biochemical profiles. Electrolyte homeostasis and acid-base balance. Plasma proteins and trauma. Enzymes, isoenzymes and isoforms. Diabetes mellitus. Principles and use of organ function tests e.g. GI tract and liver, renal. Endocrine function e.g. pituitary, thyroid, adrenal.
Selected special investigations: e.g. the cancer patient and tumour marker assays; the alcoholic;
14 Indicative bibliography and key on-line resources – for full details see section D in Module Booklet
Burtis CA, Ashwood ER, Bruns DE. (2007) Teitz Fundamentals of Clinical Biochemistry. 6 th Ed. Saunders.
Hughes J, Jefferson JA. (2008) Clinical Chemistry made easy. Churchill Livingstone.
Gaw A, Murphy M, Cowan R, O’Reilly D, Stewart M, Shepherd J. (2004) Clinical Biochemistry (An
Illustrated Colour Text) 4 th Ed. Churchill Livingstone.
Kumar V, Abbas AK, Fausto N. (2005) Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease 7 th Ed. Elsevier
Saunders.
15 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.
16 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
MODULE
17 Assessment strategy
100

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%.
Component
Quizzes
Learning outcomes
1,3
Reflective learning log
Written assignment
2,4
2,4
18 Arrangements for formative and summative feedback
Written feedback on the coursework will be given at the end of the module
19 Description of assessment items
Assessment
Method
Description of Item
On-line Quizzes (200 words)
% weighting
20
Week
Due
If not pass on aggregate, explain what is required to pass the module
Practical
ExamPractical
Exam
CourseworkCour sework
CourseworkCour sework
Reflective learning log (800 words)
Written assignment (ECA) (1000 words)
40
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
Martin Gonzo
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)