Units
Genetic Research Technology
Unit code: LQB583
Contact hours: 4 per week
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs
The tools available for the discovery and manipulation of new genes are increasing exponentially and, in turn, this is having a significant impact in many areas of the life sciences. The true potential for this ultimately relies on the ability to link genes and their function. There are many strategies, both targeted and global, which facilitate an understanding of gene and genome structure function relationships. These strategies rely on integrated technologies based on molecular genetics, molecular biology and genetic engineering. The identification of function leads then to unlimited potential for detection and manipulation of these genes in human, animal and plant systems.
Availability
| Semester | Available |
|---|---|
| 2013 Semester 1 | Yes |
Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013
Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.
Rationale
The tools available for the discovery and manipulation of new genes are increasing exponentially and, in turn, this is having a significant impact in many areas of the life sciences. The true potential for this ultimately relies on the ability to link genes and their function. There are many strategies, both targeted and global, which facilitate an understanding of gene and genome structure function relationships. These strategies rely on integrated technologies based on molecular genetics, molecular biology and genetic engineering. The identification of function leads then to unlimited potential for detection and manipulation of these genes in human, animal and plant systems.
Aims
The aim of this unit is to provide you with an understanding of the molecular processes underlying expression of genetic phenotypes and the state-of-the-art technologies and strategies that are currently available for the identification and functional characterisation of genes and to explore how this knowledge is being used to advance areas in biotechnology and medicine.
Objectives
On completion of this unit, you should be able to:
1. Have sufficient understanding of integrated approaches to cloning and characterising targeted DNA sequences to be able to apply this knowledge to devise strategies for investigating gene and genome structure-function relationships and for determining the genetic constitution of an individual at target loci;
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the molecular processes and mechanisms underlying expression of certain traits in animals and interrogate data relating to patterns of gene expression across tissues and organisms;
3. Demonstrate practical expertise in advanced technologies for gene cloning and manipulation and analysis of genetic data.
Content
Specific topics covered in this unit include:
Approaches to Teaching and Learning
Teaching in this unit is based on two hours of lectures per week. Lectures are coupled with a series of practicals that illustrate the technologies presented in the lecture material and encourage development of strategic and critical thinking. Additional approaches that will extend the traditional teaching format and provide opportunities for you to achieve deeper learning outcomes will be provided. This will include facilitated and self-directed learning by means of Problem-based Learning exercises. The various components of this unit are designed to produce learning outcomes that enhance your appreciation and comprehension of the global molecular genetic revolution. The unit is designed to produce learning outcomes that go beyond the traditional approach of knowledge transfer and acquisition. There is a greater emphasis on concepts and interpretation of information than in the traditional didactic lecture format and the unit is designed to provide opportunities for deeper learning outcomes beyond simple knowledge or concept acquisition. In particular, activities such as PBL exercises, hands-on practicals, workshops and assignments are designed to encourage a capacity for independent and critical thinking, literature research and information management skills, written and oral communication skills, hypothesis generation and testing, lateral thinking and problem solving skills, and sustainable individual and group learning strategies and habits.
Assessment
NilFeedback will be available via your unit coordinator.
Assessment name:
Problem Solving Task (SDLM)
Description:
You will be assessed by your teacher on your contribution to a series of Problem-based learning exercises, based on a set of defined criteria. The discussion format allows for feedback opportunities, and in addition the teachers will provide you with feedback during the series, regarding your progress; summative and formative
Relates to objectives:
1 and 2.
Weight:
25%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Weeks 8-13.
Assessment name:
Laboratory/Practical
Description:
You will be required to maintain a laboratory notebook which will be assessed regularly by you teachers. You will also be given a series of questions designed to assess skills developed during practical classes and your ability to apply this knowledge to the interpretation and critical analysis of experimental results. Formative and Summative
Relates to objectives:
3
Weight:
25%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Weeks 2-7.
Assessment name:
Prob Based Learning Activities
Description:
A series of 5 problem based learning activities will be assigned where you will be either:
(1) Provided with some research data from a publication and be asked to discuss the technique, the advantages and disadvantages of the technique and how the application could be extended.
(2) Provided with a disease or research problem and question and be asked to describe how a specific genetic research technique could be used to investigate the problem. You will need to outline both the methods, show understanding of the details of the method, and critically analyse if this approach is suitable or effective to address this question.
(3) Be provided with a research paper or commentary and be asked to provide comments on the future application and genetic research relevance of the finding.
In addition to submitting hard copies of your assessment you are required to electronically submit all written assignments for content matching checks. This will be conducting using SafeAssign.
Relates to objectives:
1 and 2
Weight:
50%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Mid and End Semester
Academic Honesty
QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.
A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.
Resource materials
Texts:
There is no set text for this unit.
< b>Library References:
Students will be supplied with a list of reference material at the start of semester.
Risk assessment statement
This unit includes a laboratory component. In order that you become proficient in necessary practical skills, you will be trained in the handling of equipment, materials and specimens normally associated with this discipline. You are required to complete an online health and safety quiz prior to entry to the laboratory. A passing score of 9/10 is required and will be checked prior to entry to the first laboratory. You may resit the quiz until this score is achieved. You are referred to the university's health and safety web site http://www.hrd.qut.edu.au/healthsafety/index.jsp for further information.
If you have an underlying health condition you are encouraged to consult the unit coordinator, as you may be required to take additional precautions on occasions.
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.
Last modified: 01-Nov-2012
