BI1EZ12-Key Skills in Ecology and Zoology

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: BI1BM12 Key Skills in Biomedicine
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Chris Jones
Email: c.i.jones@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Alongside gaining in-depth biological knowledge in other modules, developing transferrable skills is essential for your development as a Biologist. This module focuses on providing a common foundation in transferable skills relevant to increasing success whilst studying at university and in future careers.

Aims:

Students will gain experience in key skills areas applicable across the biosciences: Study Skills, Writing Skills, Mathematical Skills, and Computer Literacy. Additionally, they will gain skills in critical analysis of research, and career management, as well as skills relevant to enhancing their employability.

Assessable learning outcomes:

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

1. Demonstrate the ability to write in various styles, including essays and scientific reports; with the ability to reference sources in an appropriate manner. 


2. Show application of mathematical skills appropriate to their chosen degree, such as calculations of dilutions, formulae etc., statistics and data analysis. 


3. Demonstrate knowledge and application of relevant computer skills, including use of key packages, e.g. Excel, Minitab, Powerpoint, referencing software, as well as the ability to access and use online resources. 


4. Demonstrate ability to interpret and communicate scientific concepts through written means.

Additional outcomes:

1. Show awareness of time management and different types of learning (including their own preferred types). 


2. Show an awareness of career management, and demonstrate a proactive attitude to developing a career path. Students will be expected to attend relevant events to enhance their career awareness.


3. Demonstrate awareness of scientific methods used in research.


4. Demonstrate the ability to work successfully in a group environment to achieve shared goals. 

Outline content:

The module will be delivered through guided discussion in tutorials/seminars, case studies, worked examples and independent study. Additionally, a series of lectures and workshops will be delivered by module staff and invited speakers on areas relevant to core skills (e.g. stats and career management). 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

A series of group tutorials and workshops will deliver core content relating to study skills, writing, computer literacy and career management. Invited speakers will present material in lectures such as stats. Additionally, practice of key skills through worked and subject examples will take place during tutorials.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	1	10
Seminars	5	10
Guided independent study:	44	30
Total hours by term			0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Set exercise	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:
No examination

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 will provide the opportunity for 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: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/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: N/A


2. Specialist equipment or materials: N/A


3. Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: N/A


4. Printing and binding: N/A


5. Computers and devices with a particular specification: N/A


6. Travel, accommodation and subsistence: N/A

Last updated: 22 September 2022