Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

The unit will be taught in a flipped classroom mode to encourage an active learning experience. Students engage with online learning materials (e.g. videos, readings) in preparation for activities in seminars and laboratories, which will be continuously assessed throughout semester.

The objective of this unit is to provide students with an understanding of the concepts and methods used in molecular biology and to prepare students to apply this knowledge to solve problems, as well as to analyse and evaluate experimental results. The unit extends many of the topics introduced in SCIE1106 Molecular Biology of the Cell and BIOC2001 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Cell. These topics include DNA, RNA and protein synthesis; gene and genome structure and function, the regulation of gene expression, cellular quality control mechanisms in RNA and protein synthesis; bioinformatics; recombinant DNA technology, membrane-less organelles and genetic engineering. In practicals, students will learn manual skills required to prepare and perform a gene expression analysis using qRT-PCR. Students will learn how to document and report experimental outcomes. Students will further learn how to analyse and critically evaluate experimental results and how to avoid and troubleshoot experimental problems.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 core unit in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Molecular Life Sciences; Biochemistry of Nutrition major sequences
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe, summarise and explain molecular biology concepts including the molecular biology of gene expression on the transcriptional, posttranscriptional and post-translational level, the structure and functioning of membrane-less organelles, and the molecular structure and function of genomes; (2) learn skills in the planning, preparation and hands on execution of gene expression analysis using real time qPCR; (3) develop generic skills such as data analysis and interpretation and reporting of results in written and other communication forms; and (4) develop interpersonal and teamwork skills..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) end-of-semester theory examination; (2) practical assessment: lab assignment and lab performance; and (3) continuous assessment – group video assignment (student receives an individual mark) and quizzes during online and seminar activities.. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Thomas Martin
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
two Unit(s) BIOC2001 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Cell
and Unit(s) BIOC2002 Biochemical Regulation of Cell Function
Contact hours
Workshops (2 x approximately 90 minutes), seminars (19 x 45 minutes), laboratories (approximately 35 hours)
Note
BIOC3001 has a compulsory face to face laboratory component, which will need to be completed (at a later date) before a final grade can be awarded for the unit, if the unit is completed in an online mode.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.