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James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2022

For subject information from 2025 and onwards, please visit the new JCU Course and Subject Handbook website.

BM1003 - Biomedicine in the Tropics

Credit points:03
Year:2022
Student Contribution Band:Band 2
Administered by:College of Public Health, Medical & Vet Sciences (pre 2023 PCS)

Subject Description

    As a foundation to the Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences, Bachelor of Clinical Sciences(Honours) and Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (Honours), BM1003 introduces you to fundamental core research skills, both theoretical and practical. It positions you, the learner, as an up-and-coming scientist gathering skills in research methodology, bioinstrumentation, data base searching, information retrieval and scientific reporting (written and oral). At the level of the subject, you will explore the diversity of disciplines and options for further study in biomedicine including medical laboratory science, clinical sciences and other laboratory-based careers within a tropical/regional context. You will have the opportunity to learn team work skills, professional ethics, biosafety and experimental design. You will gain practical experience through the combination of laboratory/workshop and work placement in medical, clinical teaching and research laboratory environments. You will also have the opportunity to network with a host of researchers and employers.

Learning Outcomes

  • Apply theoretical and ethical principles (human, animal and/or bioethics) to research practices
  • Assess published information from a range of sources and apply it in scientific writing
  • Communicate clearly and succinctly in oral and written modes for scientific and/or non-scientific audiences
  • Demonstrate scientific procedures including research design, laboratory work, data gathering/analysis and reporting of results
  • Work collaboratively, cooperatively and ethically within a multicultural team
  • Develop an appreciation and understanding for bioinstrumentation and error inherent in measurement

Subject Assessment

  • Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (45%) - Individual
  • Written > Reflection/reflective task 1 - (20%) - Individual
  • 3a Group Written Poster (20%), 3b Individual Written Scientific Manuscript and Reflection (15%) - (35%) - Group & Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Participate in at least 80% of the laboratory/workshop classes; Achieve a minimum of 50% in Assessment 1; Achieve a minimum of 50% overall in Assessments 2 & 3; Complete assessment requirements worth at least 80% of the total possible marks, as per the Students Results Policy; Achieve a minimum of 50% of the total marks for the subject.

Availabilities

Townsville, Study Period 2, Internal

Census date:Thursday, 25 Aug 2022
Study Period Dates:Monday, 25 Jul 2022 to Friday, 18 Nov 2022
Coordinator(s):
MR Gary Nolan
Lecturer(s):
DR Jenny Elliman
DR Jackie Picard
Assoc. Professor Brenda Govan
DR Lisa Chilton
DR Danica Vojisavljevic
DR James Whinney
Assoc. Professor Donna Rudd
Workload expectations:The student workload for this 3 credit point subject is approximately 130 hours.
  • 39 Hours - Lectures (didactic or interactive)
  • 39 Hours - Workshops
  • 10 Hours - Professional experience