module specification

This module is a level 5 core module for the Biomedical Science degree. The module develops an understanding of infection science from a systems and laboratory diagnostic perspective. Students will develop their knowledge of the different types of microorganisms and how they cause disease.  The module will also give students knowledge of the immune system in health and disease. Through case studies in tutorials students will develop vocationally relevant critical reasoning and problem solving skills. Through laboratory practical exercises students will develop practical laboratory skills. Development of vocational reasoning and practical skills will enhance employability.

BS4001 Laboratory Science
AS4003 Cell and  Molecular Biology
BS4004 Anatomy and Physiology

The module aims to give students an understanding of the different types of microorganisms and the diseases they cause using a systems approach.
To show an understanding of pathogenicity and the virulence mechanisms of major groups of microorganisms. Introduction to the use of laboratory investigations to corroborate clinical diagnosis and treatment of microbial diseases.
To study the mechanisms of the mammalian immune system in defence against disease and the consequences of inappropriate responses of the immune system.

The module will give an overview of the biology of infectious diseases for bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. There will be an overview of the immune system in health and disease to complement level 4.  This will cover the innate and adaptive immune system and show how microorganisms have evolved mechanisms to evade the immune system and cause disease.
Infectious diseases by bodily systems will be covered with emphasis on laboratory diagnosis and treatment. Strategies for disease treatment and control will be taught with emphasis on prevention.
The common themes of health and safety and quality control in the microbiology laboratory will be emphasised throughout the module.
Practical classes will reinforce the lecture materials and allow students to develop laboratory skills.

Teaching and learning will be delivered via lectures, tutorials and practicals.
Lectures will give the required information.
Tutorials designed to reinforce the lecture material. Seen tutorials should be attempted beforehand. Tutorials will include case studies to develop vocational critical reasoning skills.
Practicals will build on the information from lectures to reinforce learning. Practicals also designed to develop student’s practical laboratory skills to enhance employability.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

1. Categorize infectious diseases by type of organism (bacteria, virus, fungi, protozoa, parasites) and by bodily systems.
2. Describe and discuss the aetiology and laboratory diagnosis of infectious diseases including the importance of Quality and health and safety in the diagnostic microbiology laboratory.
3. Describe and explain the immune system and microbial evasion of the immune system.
4. Compare and contrase the need for different strategies for the control of infectious diseases.
5. Categorise the treatment of infectious diseases and discuss the problem of antibiotic resistance.

Assessment is designed to promote deep learning using both formative and summative exercises.
Weekly formative online quizzes to allow access to lecture materials will promote engagement.
To pass the module, students need to achieve a minimum aggregate mark of 40%.  There will be an attendance requirement for the practical sessions. If the module is passed on reassessment, then the maximum mark awarded will be 40%.
Coursework: Seen essay.
Final Exam:  Comprising MCQ’s, short answer questions.
 

Item                                           Mark      Learning Outcomes
Case study (1 hr)                     50%         1, 2,5
Written Exam (1.5 hours)        40%        1,2,3,4,5
Quizzes                                       10%        1,2,3,4,5   
      

Delves, PJ., Martin, SJ., Burton, DR., and Roitt, IM. (2011) Roitt’s Essential Immunology, 12th Edn,. Wiley.
Ford, M. (2014). ‘Medical Microbiology.’ Oxford University Press. Fundamentals of Biomedical Science series. 2nd Ed.
Glencross, H. Ahmed, N. and Wang, Q. (2011). Biomedical Science Practice. OUP. Fundamentals of Biomedical Science series.
Hall, A. and Yates, C. (2010). ‘Immunology.’ Oxford University Press. Fundamentals of Biomedical Science series.
Strelkauskas, A. Strelkauskas J. and Moszyk Strelkauskas, D. ‘Microbiology a clinical approach.’ Garland Science 2010