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

Students learn how the theory of plant and animal breeding and biotechnology is applied in practice through analysing real- world cases. This unit improves communication skills and analytical skills and is taught in modules. Each module or case is taught in blocks of two weeks. Experienced professionals with special expertise in an area of genetics and genomics relevant to breeding and biotechnology deliver the lectures. Only revolutionary, successful and applicable cases in breeding and biotechnology are chosen and presented in the unit. The lecturer responsible for each module gives students a recent publication in a contemporary area of development in breeding and biotechnology and a three-hour lecture/discussion, clearly contextualising the focused area in the big picture of breeding and biotechnology. Students read the paper, participate in the lecture/discussion, and find two related papers in the same area from the literature. Based on the materials/information given and found, students write a one page commentary critically analysing the case, including the genetic foundation, process of development and successful application in the industry. Students may also comment on what they have learned, critical issues and possible future directions. Students also have a chance to give a five-minute oral presentation for each module.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) understand through real-world examples how the theory of breeding and biotechnology is applied in practice; (2) communicate effectively on current research in breeding and biotechnology; and (3) critically analyse current research in breeding and biotechnology and demonstrate this in both written and verbal forms.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) oral presentations and (2) written reports on each module. 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 Judith Lichtenzveig
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
72510 Master of Agricultural Science
or 71580 Master of Biotechnology
or HON-AGSCI Agricultural Science
or HON-BTECH Biotechnology
Advisable prior study
GENE2250 Principles of Inheritance or equivalent
Contact hours
2 x 3-hr sessions every second week for six weeks
  • 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.