Module manager: Dr Andrew Smith
Email: A.J.Smith1@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
Continued progression on MBIOL from Year 2 (Level 5) to Year 3 (Level 6) (minimum average of 65% at Year 2 (Level 5)).
| BMSC3398 | Practical Research Skills |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
- To develop the ability to plan and implement a comprehensive literature search using a range of literature searching tools.
- To develop the ability to critically evaluate and synthesize information from different published sources relevant to the topic.
- To write a well-structured literature review.
- To present the literature research findings.
- To write a well-designed project proposal.
- To manage time effectively, achieve objectives set and work independently.
On completion of this module, students will:
- Critically evaluate and integrate information from a range of published sources connected to their topic area (using appropriate literature search tools to obtain this information).
- Compose a well-structured and well-articulated literature review and project proposal.
- Demonstrate oral communication skills by clearly explaining the literature research findings and answering questions on the work.
- Effectively organise their time, achieve objectives set and report back on their achievements.
Students will have the opportunity to develop and utilise the following skills: project and time management, research study design, research skills, literature searching, critical analysis of the literature, data handling and analysis, scientific report writing and oral communication.
Students will be required to carry out a literature review according to the specific project that will be studied in Year 4 (level 7). The project will be assessed on the basis of a written literature review, project proposal and an oral presentation.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision Meetings | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| presentation | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Private study hours | 188 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 12 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
This includes searching and reading scientific research literature, analysis, writing a literature review and preparation of an oral presentation.
Routine monitoring by individual supervisors. Drafts of written reviews and project proposals to receive comments from supervisors before formal assessment.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Oral Presentation | 10 minute presentation of main findings | 20 |
| Project | Experimental project proposal | 40 |
| Project | Literature review | 40 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 18/02/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team