Download Topics in science S142 Presentation pattern

Topics in science
S142
Presentation pattern
February to September
Module description
In this module students will study three out of four topics in contemporary science. Students
will begin with Human genetics and health issues, which deals with our genes – an area at
the forefront of medical science before studying Empire of the microbes, which explores the
intriguing world of bacteria, viruses, yeast and other microscopic organisms. To allow some
specialisation between studying health sciences or environmental sciences there will be a
choice between the topics of The frozen planet which explains the science behind the polar
regions or Molecules, medicines and drugs which explores drug development, infection and
disease.
Person specification
The person specification for this module should be read in conjunction with the generic
person specification for an associate lecturer at The Open University.
As well as meeting all the requirements set out in the generic person specification, you should
have:
 a first degree in a science subject (biology, environmental biology, chemistry,
pharmacology, microbiology)
 demonstrable knowledge of more than one science discipline (biology, environmental
biology chemistry, pharmacology, microbiology)
 evidence of teaching in science (biology, environmental biology chemistry, pharmacology,
microbiology), preferably recently and at university level
 evidence of facilitating student skills development in science (biology, environmental
biology chemistry, pharmacology, microbiology)
 an awareness of the importance of science in understanding contemporary health and
environmental debates
 proven ability to explain difficult concepts in biology, environmental biology chemistry,
pharmacology, microbiology
 experience of working online which demonstrates your potential to support student
learning effectively in an electronic environment.
It would be an advantage to have:
 relevant postgraduate experience
 experience of supporting adult learners
 experience of providing support for distance learners from a wide range of backgrounds
and abilities
 evidence of competence in the use of computer-based communication tools such as
synchronous conferencing (e.g. Skype) to facilitate student learning.
Additional information
 Tuition is carried out using electronic discussion forums. Assignments are submitted,
marked and returned electronically.
 Experience of using electronic forms of distance teaching and support would be useful but
training will be provided.
Module related details - a full explanation can be found on the website
Credits awarded to the student for the successful
completion of a module:
Number of assignments submitted by the student:
Method of submission for assignments:
Level of ICT requirements:
Number of students likely to be in a standard group:
Salary band:
Estimated number of hours per teaching week:
30
3
2
3
20
3
3.30