Course Title: Biology

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Biology

Credit Points: 12.00

Terms

Course Code

Campus

Career

School

Learning Mode

Teaching Period(s)

BIOL2516

City Campus

Preparatory

TRN RMIT Training

Face-to-Face

 Term1 2023,
Term2 2023

Course Coordinator: Jo Bradley

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3992 51675

Course Coordinator Email: rmit.training.fs.team.leaders@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: Level 5, B108

Course Coordinator Availability: Mon-Fri, 9AM - 5PM


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

None.


Course Description

Biology is the study of living organisms. In this course, students investigate the human organism, focusing on cellular structure and function and the control and immune systems. DNA, gene expression and mutations will be explored together with biotechnology and its applications. Practical activities will develop a firm foundation in analytical processes and scientific methodology.


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

See Learning Outcomes.


Program Learning Outcomes:

  1. Apply the rules of, and expectations for, academic study and assume responsibility for your own actions to work effectively as an individual and/or as a member of a group;
  2. Develop and express ideas through independent reading, the creation of images, and the collection and interpretation of data and information; 
  3. Communicate ideas with clarity, logic, and originality in both spoken and written English;
  4. Construct coherent arguments, narratives or justifications of issues, problems or technical processes when undertaking analytical, practical or creative tasks; and,
  5. Use a range of contemporary digital and learning technologies, tools and methods common to the discipline.

Course Learning Outcomes:

  1. Apply scientific conventions, terminology, data collection and analysis techniques in laboratory and classroom settings;
  2. Describe control and immune systems in humans and explain their function in relation to cellular and molecular processes;
  3. Explain how proteins are synthesised and the consequences of mutations on their functions; and,
  4. Connect the use of biotechnology with the underlying biological principles.


Overview of Learning Activities

This course includes a blend of didactic, active, and collaborative learning activities designed to meet the needs of international students. The course encourages the process of inquiry, application and reflection through student centred learning and teaching activities including practical work in studio environments and laboratories . In doing so, there will be a focus on the development of critical and analytical thinking skills that promote problem solving, independent research skills and group work. Students will develop their technology skills through engagement in formative and summative assessments. The course will maximise the use of the learning management system by incorporating flipped and blended methodologies. This may be complemented by guest lectures, excursions and speakers with discipline specific work life expertise to further connect content to the professional world and generate opportunities for reflective practice.


Overview of Learning Resources

Various learning resources are available through RMIT’s learning management system,  Canvas. In addition to assessment details and a study schedule, you will also be provided with links to relevant course information, class activities and communication tools. 

Other learning resources are also available online through RMIT Library. Visit the RMIT library website for further details. Academic and learning support is provided through Study Success at RMIT Training. The Foundation Studies home group program will also provide support, navigating university systems, advice on living and studying in Melbourne as well as explaining RMIT university policy and procedures.

Additional resources and/or sources to assist your learning will be identified by your course coordinator and will be made available to you as required during the teaching period.


Overview of Assessment

 Assessment Type Assessment Description  Weighting 
Practical Exercise Portfolio

Practical Exercises and Reports. Five to be completed, each worth 6%. Practical exercises to be performed in groups and individual reports to be submitted.

Held in weeks 2, 5, 6, 11, 12.

  30%
Tests

Multiple Choice and Short Answer Tests (x2)

Two 40-minute tests in weeks 6 and 12. The week 6 test assesses work covered in weeks 1 to 5. The week 12 test assesses work covered in weeks 6 to 11. Each test will comprise 50% multiple choice and 50% short answer questions.

  10%
Research Report

The product is to be an 800 word individual research report. Topics will rotate each semester. Each student will investigate a particular example or case study of a disease, illness, pathogen or genetic condition that affects human health.

Students will need to:

  • take written research notes and submit these with the report as part of the assessment
  • explain the relevant biological processes that lead to the disease, illness, pathogen or genetic condition
  • connect the biological processes with the health outcomes for humans
  • explore current treatments
  • use journals to find and describe a case study of current research into the topic.

Assessment Task introduced: Week 9. To be submitted: Beginning of Week 15.

  30%
Examination

An examination of 120 minutes of writing time. This incorporates 25% multiple choice and 75% short answer questions. Held in week 18 under exam conditions, the exam will cover work studied in weeks 1 to 17.

  30%