Critically assess parasite-borne issues
and select appropriate control strategies to monitor and address these issues

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students will develop a portfolio of cognitive skills comprising analysis and evaluation through a number of taught specialist modules comprising: Parasitology I (Foundations in Parasitology), Parasitology II (Advanced Parasitology), Literature Review and a Research Project. Foundations in Parasitology and Advanced Parasitology are classroom based, with lectures, directed reading and seminars. Advanced Parasitology encompasses a dual approach with classroom based lectures and seminars directly related to practical sessions held within the Key Skills in Parasitology module. The specialist module Key Skills in Parasitology will incorporate practical based classes and demonstrations offering students the ability to obtain a repertoire of highly desirable discipline-specific and transferable skill sets.

Methods of Assessment

The development of cognitive skills will be assessed throughout the duration of the programme based on the completion of continuous assessment and written examinations.

Analyse and critically evaluate data obtained from analytical and experimental investigations

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students will develop appropriate skills through practical components of the modules and also the Literature Review and Research Project modules. Skills in judgement of evidence and synthesis are practised and demonstrated through group learning activities and problem-based exercises.

Methods of Assessment

Evaluation and analysis skills are emphasised in the examinations and are specifically mentioned in the marking criteria for the project and literature review.

Make sound scientific judgments and assessments in the absence of complete data

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Both the Literature Review and Research Project modules require students to work independently, guided by a supervisor or tutor. Students will practise bibliographic search skills through a comparison of different online databases. The underlying skills necessary for research are emphasised in Key Skills in Parasitology.

Methods of Assessment

Successful completion of Literature Review
and Research Project dissertations.

Display an in depth knowledge of the key current and emerging issues relating to parasite impacts on human, plant and animal health and welfare, food security and the future sustainability of food production.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Subject-specific knowledge is taught through the specialist modules of Skills in Parasitology and Parasitology I and II. In- depth knowledge of a specific subject area is developed through supervised research in the Literature Review and Research Project modules.

Methods of Assessment

Continuous assessment including Literature Review, Research Project and the written examination.

Critically assess, select and apply the correct analytical tools in a logical and scientific manner to help identify parasite infection and how it can be combated to improve human, plant and animal health and the performance of agri-livestock production systems

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The specialist modules Parasitology I and II will be delivered through lectures and seminars, supported by directed reading of textbooks and journal articles. The Advanced Skills in Parasitology module will be delivered through practicals and seminars, supported by additional directed reading and practicals held in Skills in Parasitology.

Methods of Assessment

Continuous assessment, practical assessment and written examination.

Have acquired the in-depth skills to make sound scientific judgements based on proper critical analysis of available data and information

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

An understanding of certain elements in the Advanced Skills in Parasitology module can only be developed through practical exercises which will be a key component of this module whereby students will obtain working knowledge of a range of analytical techniques and technologies which can be applied to the detection and treatment of parasite infections.

Methods of Assessment

Continuous assessment and Research Project dissertation.

Communicate their observations and conclusions clearly and professionally to specialist and non-specialist audiences

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Continuous assessment tasks based on self-directed learning, Literature review and Research Project modules.

Methods of Assessment

Continuous assessment, Literature review and Research Project dissertation.

Demonstrate personal initiative, independence and use team-oriented skills to tackle and solve problems

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Continuous assessment tasks based on self-directed learning, Literature review and Research Project
modules.

Methods of Assessment

Continuous assessment, Literature review and Research Project dissertation.

Demonstrated the ability for independent learning required for continuing professional development

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Continuous assessment tasks based on self-directed learning, Literature review and Research Project modules.

Methods of Assessment

Continuous assessment, Literature review and Research Project dissertation

Demonstrate subject specific knowledge of molecular biology, immunology and other analytical methodologies used in parasitology/pathogen biology research. In particular, students will be able to appreciate the range of methodologies used in modern parasitological/pathogen biology research including their application, strengths and weaknesses; they will also be able to communicate the principles behind these methods.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Subject-specific skills are principally taught through the specialist module in Advanced Skills in Parasitology. Further in- depth skills of a specific area are developed through supervised research in the Literature Review and Research Project modules. Additionally, information will be gained from lectures, practicals, seminars and laboratory-based research activities – these will be supported by directed reading of textbooks and journal articles.

Methods of Assessment

Continuous assessment, practical reports and written examination.

Develop their transferable skills to a
NQF M-level standard. These skills can be subdivided as:
a) Application of numerical skills

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students develop numerical skills through discussions of the evidence underlying different pieces of scientific research (in lectures and seminars), and through applied practice through completion of a research project.

Methods of Assessment

Continuous assessment tasks and Research Project dissertation.

b) Communication skills

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students practise and develop communication skills throughout the course. Skills development is facilitated through feedback. Students prepare work for different audiences. Communication skills include the preparation of slides for scientific presentations such as scientific talks and posters.

Methods of Assessment

Feedback and assessment on performance in continuous assessment group tasks is given by teaching staff.

c) Information technology skills

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Learning is generally supported through IT-based resources. Students therefore develop skills in internet searching for literature and other web-based material. Email is used to communicate with the students and use of this resource is covered (along with online databases and use of library catalogues) in Key Skills in Parasitology. Students produce coursework assessments using different packages (word-processing, graphics).

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is carried out in formative and summative contexts.

d) Improved own learning and performance

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students are encouraged to reflect on their learning through feedback given formally and informally. Research projects and literature reviews are chosen following discussion and reflection on personal goals and motivation for different types of research. Personal goals and effectiveness are discussed as part of the teaching in Key Skills in Parastiology and students are expected to assess their own performance using evidence obtained from course work and interactions with peers and teaching staff.

Methods of Assessment

Continuous assessment, Literature review and Research Project dissertation. Additionally students are expected to assess their own performance and progression using feedback from their course work and interactions with their peers and module team.

e) Problem solving

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Problem solving is practised in course work assignments and in the research project. Intellectual and practical flexibility, along with creativity, are necessary for much scientific research.

Methods of Assessment

Assessments in subject specific modules include elements of problem solving and report writing.

f) Working with others

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Team work as well as the ability to work individually, either through individual research or in collaborative groups is required by students at various points during the programme. Course work within the modules contains aspects of group-based activities such as collaborative practicals and group presentations.

Methods of Assessment

Feedback and assessment on performance in group tasks will be given to students by teaching staff.