module specification

This module aims to explore the fundamental interplay between genetic, physiological, environmental and nutritional influences on human growth and development throughout the lifespan. Students will develop an awareness of the short and long-term consequences for growth and development if these factors are not optimal.

DI5004: Techniques in Nutrition Science and Research for Dietitians

The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
It aims to explore the fundamental physiological and nutritional influences on human growth and development throughout the lifespan.
Gain an appreciation of the importance of nutrition for the attainment of optimal growth, health and longevity. Develop student awareness of the interplay between genetic, physiological and environmental factors and develop an understanding of the short and long term consequences for growth and development if these factors are not optimal.
The concept of nutritional assessment and surveillance and the evaluation of different nutritional assessment systems. Indices of nutritional status and the use of reference standards. Evaluation of population and individual data of nutritional status.
Collection, statistical analysis and interpretation of anthropometric data.
This module will also provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of some personal responsibility; decision making in complex and unpredictable contexts; and the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature

The specified learning outcomes will be developed around a framework based on the following subject matter:
Pregnancy and reproduction, maternal nutritional status, foetal origins of adult disease:
Lactation & neo-natal nutrition, maternal metabolic adaptations, energy/nutrient cost of lactation, composition of breast milk, foetal metabolic and hormonal adaptations to life outside the womb
Early growth, infant feeding
Puberty, hormonal and nutritional changes and influences, bone health
Body composition
Immune function hormonal and nutrition influences
Biochemical & Physiological aspects of the colon
Ageing
Nutritional assessment and surveillance 
Determinants of nutritional status, including nutritional and socioeconomic factors.
Indices of nutritional status and the use of reference standards.
Collection, statistical analysis and interpretation of anthropometric data.

Acquisition of knowledge of the subject matter of this module will be promoted through lecturer-led lectures (28 hours) and tutorial workshops (15 hours); and through the guided use of student-centred learning resources (94 hours). Practical classes and small group work (3 hours) will be used to consolidate the student with guidance for directed activities (10 hours).

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

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the interplay between genetics; physiology; nutritional and hormonal factors over the various stages of the life cycle in the determination of growth and development and use, and apply appropriate anthropometric measurements to determine aspects body composition.
2. Critically evaluate the main physiological and nutritional influences on pregnancy and reproductive function and the implications of these for the health of the mother and infant and acquire and evaluate published and experimental data in the field of growth and development
3. Appraise information relevant to the nutritional status of a population and handle and interpret data relating to the nutritional status of a population.

This module will be summatively assessed by a piece of coursework (practical write up)(used to provide formative feedback; 1500 words). Students will undertake experimental studies measuring their own body composition. The findings will be submitted as a written report and a progress unseen? exam (1.5 hours).

Students must obtain at least 40% to pass this module. In addition students must normally obtain at least 35% in each component of assessment within this module. A mark of between 35% and 39% may be compensated by other components. If the module is passed on reassessment, then the maximum mark awarded will be 40%.

Learning Manager Meetings: in order to pass this module, students must attend at least two meetings with their Learning Manager (one in Autumn and one in Spring) in order to reflect upon, discuss and plan their approach to learning and organisation of their study.

ACC/SCN. (2004)  Assessment of nutritional status Fourth and Fifth Reports on the World Nutrition Situation. New York. UN.
Cogill, B (2003) Anthropometric Indicators Measurement Guide. Food and Nutrition Technical Assistance Project. Washington D.C. Academy for Educational Development.
Gibson RS. (2005)  Principles of  Nutritional Assessment,  Oxford University Press [CORE]
Groff JL, Smith JL, Gropper SS. (2005) Advanced Nutrition and Metabolism.  London.  Wadsworth/Thomson Learning.
Geissler CG, Powers H (2010) Human Nutrition 12th Edn London. Elsevier