module specification

BC5061 - Infection Science 1 (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Infection Science 1
Module level Intermediate (05)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Human Sciences
Total study hours 150
 
111 hours Guided independent study
39 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 40%   Journal article review (1000 words)
Unseen Examination 40%   Online final Exam 1.5 hrs
In-Course Test 20%   Weekly Online Quizzes
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Autumn semester North Tuesday Afternoon

Module summary

The module develops an understanding of infection science from a laboratory diagnostic perspective. You will develop your knowledge of the different types of microorganisms and how they cause disease. You will also gain knowledge of the innate and acquired immune system in health and disease, including complement. Through case studies in tutorials you will develop vocationally relevant critical reasoning and problem solving skills. Through laboratory practical exercises you will develop practical laboratory skills. Development of vocational reasoning and practical skills will enhance your employability.
You will gain an understanding of pathogenicity and the virulence mechanisms of major groups of microorganisms and how these enable evasion of the immune system. You will understand the use of laboratory investigations to corroborate clinical diagnosis and treatment of microbial diseases.
Teaching and learning will be delivered via lectures, tutorials and practicals.
Lectures will give the required information.
Tutorials are 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 and develop practical skills. Learning outcomes are linked to the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) standards and requirements, to allow progression to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration portfolio.

Prior learning requirements

N/A

Syllabus

You will be able to give an overview of the biology of infectious diseases for bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. (LO1)
You will be able to describe the immune system in health and disease. This will cover the innate and adaptive immune system, including complement and show how microorganisms have evolved mechanisms to evade the immune system and cause disease. (LO2,)
Strategies for disease treatment and control will be taught with emphasis on prevention using vaccination, antibiotics, vector control, safe food and water production. (LO3)
The common themes of health and safety and quality control in the microbiology laboratory will be emphasised throughout the module. (LO3)
Practical classes will reinforce the lecture materials and allow students to develop laboratory skills. (LO1)

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

A combination of lectures, tutorials, practicals, online quizzes, case studies and journal article review give a variety of learning methods for blended learning. Quizzes allow reflection on the lecture and tutorial material.


Practicals and journal article analysis give opportunities for critical reflection and PDP completion to include practical methods. Practical classes promote the learning of laboratory technical skills. They also emphasise health and safety including aseptic technique, correct methods and the correct disposal of laboratory waste

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:
1. Categorize infectious diseases by type of organism (bacteria, virus, fungi, protozoa) and describe and discuss the aetiology and laboratory diagnosis of infectious diseases.
2. Describe and explain the innate and acquired immune system, including complement and how microbial evasion of the immune system is involved in virulence and pathogenicity.
3. Compare and contrast the need for different strategies for the control of infectious diseases including, vaccination, antibiotics,  the need for safe food and water supplies and strategies to ensure this and understand the importance of Quality control and health and safety in the diagnostic microbiology laboratory

Bibliography