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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Practical Analytical Skills For Life Sciences
Reference PL1903 Version 1
Created October 2022 SCQF Level SCQF 7
Approved June 2023 SCQF Points 30
Amended ECTS Points 15

Aims of Module
To train students in laboratory safety and the basic manipulative skills associated with laboratory work. To provide students with fundamental understanding of the principles and applications of analytical techniques in the life sciences. To provide training in the accurate recording of experimental procedures, observations, results, calculations and conclusions.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Understand the theoretical principles of fundamental immunological, microbiological, chromatographic, electrophoretic, and electroanalytical techniques and their applications.
2 Identify risks in the laboratory and use laboratory reagents and equipment appropriately.
3 Record and analyze experimental observations appropriately.

Indicative Module Content
Laboratory safety. Preparation of risk assessments. Keeping accurate records. Data handling, use of Excel and presentation. Introductory statistics. Preparation of solutions and dilutions. Accurate use of balances and pipettes. Microbiological techniques: principles and applications. Processing of biological samples. Light microscopy: principles and applications. Electrophoresis: principles and applications. Calibration. Colorimetry and spectrophotometry: principles and applications. Immunological Methods: principles and applications. Electroanalytical Techniques. Chromatography. The cell culture laboratory.

Module Delivery
This is a laboratory-based module supported by tutorials, workshops, online support material and guided reading.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 70 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 230 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 300 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Practical Exam Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3
Description: Laboratory skills test

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
Component 1 (PE1) comprises 100%. A minimum of a PASS is required to pass the module.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
Pass PE1: Pass
Fail PE1: Unsuccessful
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None, in addition to course entry requirements.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 LANGFORD, A., DEAN, J.R., REED, R., HOLMES, D., WEYERS, J. and JONES, A. 2018. Practical Skills in Forensic Science. 3rd Edition. Pearson.
2 REED, R.H., HOLMES, D., WEYERS, J. and JONES, A. 2016. Practical Skills in Biomolecular Science. 5th Edition. Pearson.

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781