BI1KS17-Key Skills in Biomedical Engineering

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Module Convenor: Prof Rachel McCrindle

Email: r.j.mccrindle@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module will provide students with a common foundation in transferable skills relevant to study and future careers in Biomedical Engineering and related professions. These will include generic skills and also subject specific skills related to developing biomedical systems including an introduction to microcontrollers, sensors, 3D printing and servo motors. 

Aims:

Students will gain experience in key skill areas applicable across biomedical engineering. These include research skills, study skills, communication skills, problem solving, critical thinking, teamwork and practical systems development. Additionally, they will gain skills and understanding relevant to engineering in medicine and biology (Bioengineering), including practical skills, understanding of the social context of their subject and skills related to enhanced employability.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of microcontrollers, sensors and servos, 3D printing and their use in biomedical systems

2.  Demonstrate the ability to write in various styles, including technical writing; with the ability to reference sources in an appropriate manner.

3. Demonstrate the ability to give effective presentations, including use of appropriate techno logies and materials.  

4.  Demonstrate the ability to evaluate problems and develop creative solutions.

5.  Demonstrate the ability to work independently and as a member of a team.

6 . Demonstrate an awareness of the scope of applications relevant to Biomedical Engineering.

7. Demonstrate an awareness of career opportunities and career management skills required for Biomedical Engineering and related job sectors.

Additional outcomes:

Students should understand what constitutes plagiarism. The module will also help students prepare and understand the process of formal written examinations and assessed work; appreciate time management and be aware of different types of learning (including their own preferred types.)

Outline content:

A series of lectures, tutorials and practicals will be delivered by module staff on areas relevant to core skills. Lectures will be supported by guided discussion in tutorials/practicals, case studies, worked examples, guided independent study and a team project. Professional writing and presentation skills will be introduced including, features of and structure for lab reports, design and delivery of effective presentations, strategies for searching and referencing information sources. Caree rs management skills will also be introduced including how to build a professional portfolio while at University; self-awareness/evaluation of strengths and weaknesses; job requirements for technical and engineering competences as well as the career/job opportunities available.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures are supported by seminars/tutorials

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	10
Tutorials	10
Practicals classes and workshops	20
Guided independent study:	60
Total hours by term	100	0	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Portfolio	30
Project output other than dissertation	60
Set exercise	10

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

A variety of summative assessments will be used in this module to assess student’s attainment in accordance with the assessable learning outcomes. 

Formative assessment methods:

Worked examples and case studies encountered in tutorials and practicals will provide the opportunity for oral formative feedback from staff and peers as well as self-reflection.

Penalties for late submission:

The Module Convenor will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day[1] (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:

In-course assessment work

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 6 October 2020