BI1BP2-Pathology

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: BI1BAD2 Pathology and Histology
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Sam Boateng
Email: s.boateng@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Pathology is the study of diseases and how they affect the body.Ìý This module introduces the tissue structure (histology) of the major systems in the Human body and the disease states (pathology) that can affect them along with an introduction to the treatment of disease and broader topics such as public health and epidemiology.

Aims:

The module will take an integrated approach to studying normal tissue architecture and how this is affected by disease. The module will provide an overview of the major disease states affecting these tissues, leading to an appreciation of the range of diseases that affect humans

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of the module students will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding and recognition of cell specialisation in different tissues of the body


• Identify different the major tissues of the body via microscopic examination or from micrographs.


• Demonstrate a practical and theoretical understanding of the methodologies used to study cells and tissues.


• Describe the aetiology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of several of the most important diseases affecting these tissues in humans.


• Demonstrate an understanding of key public health issues and the role of epidemiology in understanding the distribution and determinants of diseases.

Additional outcomes:

Develop practical laboratory skills and basic laboratory techniques.Ìý Develop data analysis skills such as arithmetical skills in calculations based on practical exercises as well as molarity and concentration calculations.Ìý Develop data presentation skills such as the production of graphical data.Ìý Develop critical analysis skills through reflection on the quality of data produced.Ìý Develop computer literacy through completion and submission of online coursework.Ìý Develop the ability to work in the laboratory as a member of a small team.

Outline content:

The lectures cover:

• Essential methodologies in cell biology including cell culture, cells as experimental models, and various types of microscopy.


• From cells to tissues - looking at epithelia, muscle, nervous and connective tissues and their cellular and extracellular constituents.


• Pathology - covering the causes, aetiology, epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting these tissues, such as: cancer, cardiovascular disease (e.g. atherosclerosis, heart failure, stroke), CNS disorders (e.g. depression, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer's, schizophrenia), autoimmune diseases (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis), diabetes, asthma and other respiratory diseases, GI tract disorders, and infections (bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic, etc).


• Public Health & Epidemiology

Practical classes cover the preparation, staining and identification of fixed tissue sections (histology).

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Theoretical knowledge of pathology will be gained through formal lectures, whilst theoretical and practical knowledge of histology will be gained through lectures and practical sessions.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

One and a half hour examination.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Assignments based on the practical classes and lecture content will contributeÌýto the overall coursework assessment.

Formative assessment methods:

Formative assessment and verbal feedback of practical laboratory skills will be given continuously during all practical sessions.

Practice calculations (molarity, concentrations etc.) are available on blackboard.

Practice examination questions, with answers for self-assessment, are made available on blackboard and/or in a revision session.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: /cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

Reassessment will be via coursework resubmission and re-examination.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1. Required text books: Recommended text books are available in the library, or to purchase if students prefer.Ìý Wider reading of journal articles is also recommended and suitable ones can be accessed for free through the library.


2. Specialist equipment or materials: Practical classes and associated online assignments may require use of a calculator, ruler, paper, pens and pencils.


3. Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: In compliance with the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 1992 Act, while studying this module students will be expected to wear the following item/s: Lab coat/Safety glasses/Safety gloves. The Department/School can provide students with lab coats at an approximate cost of £15 (to purchase) or a small rental fee (per session). Safety glasses and gloves are provided in the classes, though students may wish to purchase their own glasses at £3.Ìý SafetyÌýgloves will be provided.Ìý Students who choose not to purchase from the University must ensure that their PPE meets the latest British/European Safety Standards.


4. Printing and binding: None expected.


5. Computers and devices with a particular specification: Online assignments will need to be completed on a standard computer over the internet.Ìý Students can use their own or one of the university computers in computer rooms around campus.


6. Travel, accommodation and subsistence:Ìý None expected.

Last updated: 3 September 2024