Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Genomics and Gene Technologies
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
BIOL2571 |
City Campus |
Postgraduate |
171H School of Science |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2024 |
Course Coordinator: A/Prof. Thi Thu Hao Van
Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925
Course Coordinator Email: thithuhao.van@rmit.edu.au
Course Coordinator Availability: By appointment
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
Recommended Prior Study
It is recommended to have satisfactorily completed the following course/s before you commence this course:
- ONPS2641 Gene Technologies 1 (Course ID 001125)
Alternatively, you may be able to demonstrate the required skills and knowledge before you start this course.
Contact your course coordinator if you think you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning.
Assumed Knowledge
This course assumes a background level of knowledge in cell biology, genetics, molecular biology and biological chemistry
Course Description
Today, genomics and gene technologies play a vital role in our lives, such as their role in enhancement of disease diagnosis and treatment, therapeutics and crop improvements. This course aims to provide students with the principles, methodologies and applications of recently developed genomic and gene technologies. Topics include high throughput next generation DNA sequencing and bioinformatics to decode sequencing data, comparative genomics, foreign gene transfer and expression systems in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. We will also cover novel therapeutics and vaccines for humans and animals, pharmacogenomics and the implications of applying personalised medicine in human health. The course will equip you with advanced knowledge in the field, along with communication and critical thinking skills.
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
Program Learning Outcomes
This course contributes to the following program learning outcomes:
1. Understanding science.
1.1 You will demonstrate an advanced understanding of biological sciences by articulating the methods of science, explaining why current biological knowledge is both contestable and testable through further inquiry, and explaining the role and relevance of biotechnology in society.
1.2 You will have an understanding of recent developments in a specialised area of biotechnology
1.3 You will demonstrate knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to biological sciences
2. Advanced skills to critically analyse and solve problems in biotechnology.
2.1 You will demonstrate cognitive skills in mastery of advanced theoretical knowledge in biotechnology and apply this knowledge to solve complex problems in existing and new areas.
2.2 You will generate and evaluate complex ideas and concepts at an abstract level.
3. Application of knowledge and skills.
You will critically analyse and solve problems in biotechnology by:
3.1 Demonstrating creativity, initiative and a high level of autonomy in research and/or professional practice
3.2 Planning and executing a substantial research or work-based project and/or pieces of scholarship.
4. Communication.
You will be able to effectively communicate concepts of biotechnology to specialist and non-specialist audiences, using a variety of presentation modes.
5. Personal and professional responsibility.
5.1 You will be accountable for individual learning and scientific work by being an independent and self-directed learner
5.2 You will work effectively, responsibly, ethically, and safely in an individual or team context
5.3 You will demonstrate knowledge of the regulatory frameworks and ethical principles relevant to biotechnology
For more information on the program learning outcomes for your program, please see the program guide.
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Critical understanding of the uses of genomics and gene technologies in agriculture, animal and human health
- Explore theoretical and technical aspects of molecular structures and functions of DNA, as well as various strategies for DNA cloning and gene expression
- Identify regulations for laboratory and commercial use of GMO
- Apply next generation sequencing and interpret data obtained through high throughput sequencing studies
- Critically analyse and justify the results of laboratory investigation
- Work effectively in small groups
Overview of Learning Activities
- Attendance at lectorials, tutorials, and practicals. Involvement in class discussion, individual and group activities. Delivery may be face to face, online or a mix of both.
- Tests and laboratory projects designed to give further practice in the application of theory and procedures, and to give feedback on student progress and understanding.
- Written assignments consisting of numerical and other problems requiring an integrated understanding of the subject matter.
You are encouraged to be proactive and self-directed in your learning, asking questions of your lecturer and/or peers and seeking out information as required, especially from the numerous sources available through the RMIT library, and through links and material specific to this course that is available through myRMIT Studies Course.
Overview of Learning Resources
RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through myRMIT Studies Course.
There are services available to support your learning through the University Library. The Library provides guides on academic referencing and subject specialist help as well as a range of study support services. For further information, please visit the Library page on the RMIT University website and the myRMIT student portal.
Overview of Assessment
Assessment Tasks
Assessment Task 1: On-line Quizzes
Weighting 20%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2 & 3
Assessment Task 2: Practical reports
Weighting 40%
This assessment task supports CLOs 2, 4, 5 & 6
Assessment Task 3: Case study (in-class written assessments)
Weighting 40%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 4 & 5
If you have a long-term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.