BI2EZ45-Key Skills in Ecology and Zoology 2

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites: BI1EZ12 Key Skills in Ecology and Zoology
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Renee Lee
Email: r.b.y.lee@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This module will provide students with tutorials and lectures in transferrable skills relevant to study and future careers in Zoology and Ecology and related professions. These will include generic skills and also subject specific skills, and the content will build on and enhance the skills covered in key skills 1.

Aims:
Students will gain experience in six key skills areas applicable across the biosciences: Study Skills, Writing Skills, Mathematical/Statistic Skills, Computer Literacy, Career Skills and Critical Analysis. Additionally, they will gain skills and understanding relevant to Zoology and Ecology, including practical skills, understanding of the social context of their subject and skills relevant to enhancing employability.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Show awareness of: exam technique/revision skills, time management and including essay writing for exams.
2. Demonstrate the ability to write in various styles, including essays, scientific reports, CV and cover letters; with the ability to reference sources in an appropriate manner.
3. Show application of advanced mathematical skills appropriate to their chosen degree, such as calculations of dilution s, formulae etc., statistics, and data analysis. Whilst also applying these skills in the context of experimental design.
4. Demonstrate knowledge and application of relevant computer skills, including use of key packages, e.g. Excel, Minitab, Powerpoint and the ability to access and use online resources and specialist packages/Apps.
5. Demonstrate awareness of how their skills and knowledge can be transferable into the workplace, and ability to plan and follow their chosen career pa th.
6. Show a critical approach to reading and appraising scientific literature.

Additional outcomes:
Demonstrate awareness of scientific literature relevant to Zoology and Ecology.

Outline content:
A series of lectures and workshops will be delivered by module staff and invited speakers on areas relevant to core skills (e.g. career planning). These will include, writing styles for science, experimental design and maths/statistics, presenting scientific data, accessing and using specialist packages, making the most of MS Office, career path planning and professionalism. Lectures will be supported by guided discussion in tutorials/seminars, case studies, worked examples and guided independen t study.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
A series of lectures and group tutorials will deliver core content relating to study skills, writing, mathematics/statistics, computer literacy, career skills and critical analysis. Invited speakers will present material for in-depth discussion during tutorials. Additionally, practice of key skills through worked examples will take place during tutorials. Tutors will deliver subject specific material in group tutorials.