Unit information: Core Skills 2 (Distance Learning) in 2015/16

Unit name	Core Skills 2 (Distance Learning)
Unit code	VETSM0029
Credit points	20
Level of study	M/7
Teaching block(s)	Academic Year (weeks 1 - 52)
Unit director	Dr. Sheard
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	Core Skills 1 and Biochemistry and Meat Quality plus 4 other units from the following: Animal Production, Animal Welfare, Poultry Processing, Meat Hygiene and Public Health, Meat Processing.
Co-requisites	Research Project
School/department	Bristol Veterinary School
Faculty	Faculty of Health Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

The unit develops fundamental research-oriented skills in a meat science context, to facilitate the completion of the research project unit.

The objective of the unit is to produce students capable of designing, planning and analysing research projects that deal with industry relevant problems and issues. The unit also aims to develop students’ job seeking skills.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students must be able to:

1. address some complex industry problems informed by an in-depth knowledge and understanding, and original thinking
2. understand the importance of experimental design and statistics in research work
3. perform analysis of variance and tabulate data using appropriate scientific notation
4. write a Masters research project proposal
5. write an abstract for a research paper
6. demonstrate an awareness of health and safety issues
7. demonstrate awareness of the job market, produce a CV and covering letter, and compete effectively at interview.

Teaching Information

A blended learning approach has been adopted, combining online delivery of course material with face to face contact, developed in accordance with the ‘principles for designing and providing distance learning at the University of Bristol’ (annex 3 in the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes).

The distance learning material is hosted on a web-based platform (Blackboard) that supports written, audio and video material. Students have password-protected access to Blackboard and other electronic resources at the University of Bristol via the internet. Students can work online or download the core materials to study in their own time thus providing a highly flexible learning environment for students who combine full-time work with part-time study. Coursework is submitted electronically via Blackboard which also hosts discussion groups. Course tutors are on hand via email and telephone to support students and deal with any queries. Interaction with staff and networking with other students is encouraged with the aim of developing a community of active learners.

Students must attend a one day research project workshop.

Assessment Information

The unit is assessed entirely by coursework which includes a problem solving exercise (students must chose from a range of problems) (20%), the preparation of a research project proposal (20%), writing an abstract (20%), a statistical exercise (20%) and a career skills exercise (20%).

Reading and References

None specified.