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BI2023: INTRODUCTION TO GENETICS (2022-2023)

Last modified: 13 Oct 2022 11:50


Course Overview

Genetics and evolution are inextricably linked and provide the foundation for all other biological concepts.  In this course we introduce the subject of genetics from an evolutionary perspective that is informed by genome analysis.

A series of lectures and computer workshops will introduce you to the fundamental principles of evolution, genetics and molecular biology.  In practical classes you will have opportunity to practise modern molecular techniques.

You will also explore ethical dilemmas that arise as a consequence of our potential ability to manipulate genomes.

Course Details

Study Type Undergraduate Level 2
Term First Term Credit Points 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits)
Campus Aberdeen Sustained Study No
Co-ordinators
  • Cath Dennis
  • Dr Victoria Sleight

What courses & programmes must have been taken before this course?

What other courses must be taken with this course?

None.

What courses cannot be taken with this course?

Are there a limited number of places available?

No

Course Description

This course will guide you through the basic mechanisms of molecular genetics, inheritance and evolution.  We include animals, plants and micro-organisms.

Teaching includes group lectures, interactive online exercises, group discussions, field trips and directed self-study.

By the end of the course students should have

  • an understanding of the basics principles of genetics and evolution
  • an understanding of a range of practical laboratory techniques relevant to the field of genetics and evolution
  • the ability to analyse relevant datasets according to knowledge of basic principles
  • evaluated topics from a bioethical perspective

 

Over 11 weeks taught topics covered include
(note that these may vary slightly between years)

Evolution

Mendelian and polygenic inheritance

The central dogma of molecular biology

Genome structure, variation and regulation

Linkage and gene mapping

Phylogenetic analysis

Speciation

Analysis techniques: PCR, gel electrophoresis

Bioethics

Associated Costs

DescriptionValue
Students should possess a Howie laboratory coat and safety glasses. Further details of requirements can be found on the course's MyAberdeen page. The cost listed here is approximate. GBP 23.00

Contact Teaching Time

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

Teaching Breakdown

More Information about Week Numbers


Details, including assessments, may be subject to change until 30 August 2024 for 1st term courses and 20 December 2024 for 2nd term courses.

Summative Assessments

Data analysis

Assessment Type Summative Weighting 10
Assessment Weeks Feedback Weeks

Look up Week Numbers

Feedback

2 x online tests (5% each) - based on labs or workshops. Written feedback will be given within two weeks of submission.

Learning Outcomes
Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
ConceptualAnalyseAnalyse relevant datasets according to knowledge of basic principles.
ConceptualUnderstandUnderstand the basic principles of genetics and evolution
ProceduralUnderstandUnderstand a range of practical laboratory techniques relevant to the field of genetics, genomes and evolution

Two practical reports

Assessment Type Summative Weighting 30
Assessment Weeks Feedback Weeks

Look up Week Numbers

Feedback

Two practical reports based on labs, worth 15% each

Learning Outcomes
Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
Sorry, we don't have this information available just now. Please check the course guide on MyAberdeen or with the Course Coordinator

Open access test

Assessment Type Summative Weighting 50
Assessment Weeks 19,20 Feedback Weeks 24,25

Look up Week Numbers

Feedback

30 automatically graded questions plus two short written answers.

Learning Outcomes
Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
ConceptualAnalyseAnalyse relevant datasets according to knowledge of basic principles.
ConceptualUnderstandUnderstand the basic principles of genetics and evolution

Bioethics reflection

Assessment Type Summative Weighting 10
Assessment Weeks Feedback Weeks

Look up Week Numbers

Feedback

A short, written bioethics reflection

Feedback will be written, two weeks following submission.

Learning Outcomes
Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
ConceptualEvaluateEvaluate topic areas from a bioethical perspective 

Formative Assessment

There are no assessments for this course.

Resit Assessments

Resubmission of failed elements

Assessment Type Summative Weighting
Assessment Weeks Feedback Weeks

Look up Week Numbers

Feedback
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
Sorry, we don't have this information available just now. Please check the course guide on MyAberdeen or with the Course Coordinator

Course Learning Outcomes

Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
ConceptualAnalyseAnalyse relevant datasets according to knowledge of basic principles.
ProceduralUnderstandUnderstand a range of practical laboratory techniques relevant to the field of genetics, genomes and evolution
ConceptualUnderstandUnderstand the basic principles of genetics and evolution
ConceptualEvaluateEvaluate topic areas from a bioethical perspective 

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