Level 0 Study Guide 2012-13 Biosciencex - Swansea University

MODULE CONTENT
INTRODUCTION
A module is a discrete educational component of a programme, which has the following
attributes:
i. specific aims;
ii. a syllabus and a reading list;
iii. a teaching and learning pattern;
iv. an assessment method;
v. learning outcomes.
In addition, each module:
a. is assigned a unique reference number;
b. is assigned to a level of study which reflects the academic standard of a module and its
learning outcomes;
c. may have pre-requisites and/or co-requisites;
d. may/may not be compatible with each other.
Each module is allocated a credit weighting, and full-time students are expected to pursue 120
credit points (60 ECTS credits) in the academic year. Part-time students are expected to pursue
60 credits (30 ECTS credits).
[ECTS (the European Credit Transfer System) is a widely recognised system of credit
accumulation for regular study periods. It aims to facilitate recognition of study periods
undertaken abroad by mobile students through the transfer of credits. The system is based on
the convention that 60 credits measure the workload of a full-time student during one academic
year.]
TEACHING METHODS
Modules may be delivered by a variety of methods, e.g. lectures, academic tutorials, laboratory
or field work, projects and assessed coursework. The module information sheets, specific to
each of your modules, will give information on how the module is assessed, contact hours and
any suggested reading matter. Students are normally required to attend all lectures, laboratory
and other practical sessions, tutorials and any other planned or timetabled element of your
course. Attendance at teaching sessions is recorded and monitored.
Lectures
The purpose of lectures is to provide a framework within which information and ideas are
studied. They will contain factual information, discussion of alternative views on the subject and
analysis of the issues. Lectures last approximately 50 minutes and attendance is expected
since they form the core of School teaching. Students must not assume that all topics relevant
to the module will be covered in detail in lectures; directed reading and independent study are
also important.
All lecturers are expected to post material on “Blackboard” – as a miniumum you can expect the
module handbook, a statement of assessment and at least one past exam paper to be available
for each of your modules on the Blackboard site. Most lecturers post lecture material on
Blackboard. Timetables will be distributed during registration and enrolment and are posted on
subject area notice boards and are available on the College of Science website.
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