BPE-13303 Introduction to Molecular Life Sciences and Biotechnology

Course

Credits 3.00

Language of instruction:

Dutch

Contents:

This course is an introduction in the field of molecular life sciences and biotechnology as well as an introduction to studying at Wageningen University. The course consists of several elements:
- a profession oriented part with cases supervised by mentors.
- oral presentations;
- information on the study program;
- ethics and societal aspects of biotechnology and molecular life sciences.
Part of the course is given as a tutorial under supervision of teachers of Educational Studies. In the profession oriented part you will work in groups of 3 students under supervision of mentors (senior students biotechnology and molecular life sciences). This part consists of a number of exercises on relevant topics for your study. A report has to be written for every exercise. During the BSc students will develop a portfolio of 5 cases where they have to discuss ethical issues around biotechnology and molecular life sciences. Within this course the portfolio is introduced and used for the first case.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- give a presentation using media and supportive non-verbal behaviour;
- prepare and show structure in a presentation;
- reflect on his/her own learning process with help of a reflection model;
- cite correctly and to make reference lists;
- critically evaluate found information and avoid plagiarism;
- write a small report;
- know the study program and the professions that belong to the study of choice;
- find study related information in the study handbook and schedule;
- mention the tasks of the study advisors and how to contact these persons in case of any questions and problems;
- understand that there are ethical issues associated with activities in biotechnology and molecular life sciences and the significance of that for society;
- understand how to write a structured reflection report on an ethical issue.

Activities:

- case studies;
- ICT modules;
- group discussions;
- observation and evaluation;
- oral presentations;
- writing reports.

Examination:

Mark is based on:
- presentation skills (performance and reflection) (50%);
- case studies (participation, reports) (50%);
The marks for all individual parts should at least 5.5.

Literature:

A reader with the course guide and practical exercises is available at the start of the course.