Reproduction & Regeneration: Techniques

This subject is not offered in 2011.

120

An understanding of the principles of reproductive physiology, developmental biology or molecular biology.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study and reasonable steps will be made to enhance a student’s participation in the University’s programs. Students who feel their disability may impact upon their participation are encouraged to discuss this with the subject coordinator and the Disability Liaison Unit.

This subject gives students a broad overview of the advanced techniques used to address problems in reproductive physiology, development and regenerative science. It will introduce students to a wide range of techniques. Students will participate in interactive seminars which will introduce the context and theory behind the techniques to be studied each week. In the laboratory sessions students will have the opportunity to conduct selected techniques.

The objectives of this subject are to provide students with:
• a detailed understanding of selected contemporary techniques in reproductive physiology; and developmental and stem-cell biology
• an appreciation of the diversity of approaches used to tackle various questions in the field;
• specific skills in conducting selected techniques;
• critical skills in assessing the validity of techniques reported in the literature; and skills and experience in recording outcomes of laboratory work.

Practical notebook and worksheets completed in association with the laboratory sessions (10% for each of 6 laboratory sessions), completed during the semester.
Practical examination at the end of semester (40%).

No specific text will be prescribed for this subject but recommended reading material will be prescribed for each topic covered in the subject.

Relevant reading material will be recommended for background reading in each topic area.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

At the completion of this subject, students should:

• be able to critically evaluate experimental techniques used in the academic literature;
• gain skills in the critical assessment of the validity of results based on understanding of the techniques used;
• have increased skills in individual and team based laboratory work
• have increased skills in troubleshooting problems and interpreting results from experimental study
• have increased skills in recording and analysing laboratory work;
• have improved time management and self-management skills.