Overview

This module provides students with a comprehensive foundation in Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and essential biomedical techniques, preparing them for careers in research, diagnostics, and healthcare.

Semester 1: Foundations of Good Laboratory Practice.

Students begin with a comprehensive introduction to GLP principles, laboratory safety protocols, and quality assurance measures, alongside practical sessions on core biomedical techniques. In addition, students will be trained in quality control and assurance procedures to maintain high standards in laboratory work, while exploring ethical considerations in biomedical research, including confidentiality, informed consent, and responsible conduct.

Semester 2: Problem-Based Learning Project.

Students will work on a project applying their laboratory skills to investigate a real-world biomedical issue. This includes project planning, experimental design, data collection, and analysis. Students will present their findings in both written and oral formats, demonstrating their ability to integrate theoretical and practical knowledge.

Assessment Strategy

The assessments are spread across both semesters to maintain continuous engagement.

Semester 1 (30%): A written report assessing the students' comprehension of GLP, their ability to apply skills to a specific laboratory assay, and consideration of ethical issues in biomedical research.

Semester 2 (50%): A comprehensive problem-based project write-up that evaluates the application of GLP and laboratory techniques to solve a real-world biomedical problem, including project planning, experimental design, data collection, and analysis.

Reflective Piece (20%): A reflective assignment where students critically evaluate their learning, personal growth, and application of theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

Students enrolled on the Biomedical Science degree must attend all timetabled laboratory practical sessions and workshops. Attendance is a mandatory requirement, as these sessions are essential for developing the practical competencies and professional standards expected in the discipline.

Failure to attend practical sessions or workshops will result in failure of the module. Any absence must be supported by appropriate medical or other relevant evidence. Due to the nature of the assessments and the requirement to demonstrate hands-on skills, alternative assessments will not be possible.

Performance Expectations:

EXCELLENT - Category A (70-100%): Students will demonstrate an exceptional understanding of the subject matter, with a high degree of accuracy and precision in their work. Their assignments will be well-researched, logically structured, and show deep critical analysis, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Reflective tasks will show insightful self-assessment and significant personal and professional growth.

GOOD - Category B (60-69%): Students will show a solid understanding of the subject and demonstrate proficiency in practical tasks. Their work will be well-organized, with clear reasoning and appropriate analysis. Reflective tasks will indicate good self-awareness and learning, with some insight into personal growth and development.

ANOTHER LEVEL - Category C (50-59%): Students will demonstrate an adequate grasp of the subject matter, with practical tasks completed to a reasonable standard. Their assignments will be coherent but may lack depth in analysis and critical thinking. Reflective tasks will show basic self-assessment and recognition of learning challenges, though insights may be limited.

THRESHOLD - Category D (40-49%): Students will demonstrate a minimal understanding of the subject, with limited accuracy in their practical work. Assignments may be underdeveloped and lack structure, depth, and critical thinking. Reflective tasks will be superficial, showing little self-assessment or personal growth.

Learning Outcomes

• Analyze experimental data to identify patterns, errors, and implications for biomedical problems.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of laboratory techniques and methodologies, providing recommendations for improvements in practice and project outcomes.

• Identify and Describe the principles of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and essential biomedical laboratory techniques and reflect on their conduct and performance during the module.

• Students will be able to identify and clearly define a scientific problem within the context of biomedical sciences, demonstrating their ability to articulate research questions and objectives.