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: 2021/2

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 subject specific skills related to developing biomedical systems including an introduction to microcontrollers, sensors, 3D modelling 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 modelling & printing and their use in biomedical systems


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


3. Demonstrate the ability to effectively present and explain their work, including use of appropriate technologies and materials.  


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


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


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

Additional outcomes:

Students should also:

• understand what constitutes plagiarism


• experience working independently and as part of a team


• understand the process of formal written assessed work


• appreciate time management

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, tutorial sheets, worked examples, guided independent study and a significant technical project.

Students will gain experience in lab-based activities such as microcontrollers, sensors, servos, 3D modelling and printing. Professional writing and presentation skills will be introduced i ncluding, features of and structure for lab reports, design and delivery of effective demonstration of work, strategies for searching and referencing information sources. Careers management skills will also be introduced including how to build a professional CV and Cover Letter; 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	5
Tutorials	5
Practicals classes and workshops	40
Guided independent study:	50
Total hours by term	100	0	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Set exercise	100

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 tutorial sheets 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 Support Centres 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 (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: None


2. Specialist equipment or materials: None


3. Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: None


4. Printing and binding: None


5. Computers and devices with a particular specification: None


6. Travel, accommodation and subsistence: None

Last updated: 8 April 2021