PBR-23803 Plant Biotechnology (DL)

Course

Credits 3.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

Basic molecular biology and plant biochemistry

Continuation courses:

The DL-MSc-specializations have a fixed schedule during the pilot-phase

Contents:

Note: This course has a maximum number of participants. The deadline for registration is one week earlier than usual. See Academic Year.(http://www.wageningenur.nl/en/Education-Programmes/Current-Students/Agenda-Calendar-Academic-Year.htm) -> Registration for Courses.
Note: The period mentioned below is the period in which this course starts. For the exact academic weeks see the courseplanning on www.wur.eu/schedule.

Plant biotechnology is a discipline that connects the new insights into genes and their products with the end product that is destined for the market. As with other technological disciplines, plant biotechnology comprises a mixture of many other scientific areas of biological sciences such as molecular biology, biochemistry, physiology and genetics. In this course we will present information on the basics of classical plant biotechnology through to advanced methods for modifying and improving plants and plant products. This will be done using knowledge clips, exercises and study of a set textbook. In addition the participants will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained during the course and use their own creativity in the form of an group assignment that will run throughout the course. Another main feature of the course will be to analyse and assess the implications of this new technology for wider society. The assignment will form a central part of the course and will be submitted in the form of a written report and a presentation the latter will be reviewed and evaluated by fellow students. The presentations and debates will form part of practical week at the WUR campus.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- understand the scientific and technological components of what is and is not Plant Biotechnology;
- understand the molecular biological basis of the key technologies comprising Plant biotechnology;
- analyse literature an apply the findings to a biotechnological problem;
- critically review the position of Plant Biotechnology in relation to society;
- conceive, plan, write and present a project proposal for a plant biotechnological product.

Activities:

- read the assigned chapters in the book;
- watch the knowledge clips and additional learning material;
- carry out on-line assignments;
- peer to peer on line discussion;
- plan and execute a project assignment ;
- prepare presentation and written report;
- debate the placement of plant biotechnology in to societal and cultural contexts.

Examination:

The exam is an online remotely proctored exam, where the student should provide a suitable computer and room.

Literature:

Textbook: Plant Biotechnology, Slater, Scott & Fowler 2nd ed. OUP
Additional academic literature (PDFs) provided by tutor