ANAT SC 1102 - Human Biology IA

North Terrace Campus - Semester 1 - 2014

Human biology is the study of human life. It incorporates a variety of disciplines and focuses on issues that affect humans at the individual, population and species levels. As well as introducing students to content, emphasis is placed on developing skills in research, critical analysis and communication of scientific information relevant to the study of humans. Human Biology IA specifically investigates the relationships between normal structure and function in human cells, tissues and organs, along with mechanisms that maintain homeostasis within an individual. The course materials are organised into modules dealing with Cells and Tissues, Bone, Joints and Muscle, Nervous and Endocrine systems and Reproduction. The course does not assume prior knowledge of year 12 biology or chemistry.

  • General Course Information
    Course Details
    Course Code ANAT SC 1102
    Course Human Biology IA
    Coordinating Unit Anatomy and Pathology
    Term Semester 1
    Level Undergraduate
    Location/s North Terrace Campus
    Units 3
    Contact Up to 6 hours per week
    Course Description Human biology is the study of human life. It incorporates a variety of disciplines and focuses on issues that affect humans at the individual, population and species levels. As well as introducing students to content, emphasis is placed on developing skills in research, critical analysis and communication of scientific information relevant to the study of humans. Human Biology IA specifically investigates the relationships between normal structure and function in human cells, tissues and organs, along with mechanisms that maintain homeostasis within an individual. The course materials are organised into modules dealing with Cells and Tissues, Bone, Joints and Muscle, Nervous and Endocrine systems and Reproduction. The course does not assume prior knowledge of year 12 biology or chemistry.
    Course Staff

    Course Coordinator: Professor Mario Ricci

    Course Coordinator: Dr Mario Ricci
    Phone: +61 8 8313 3294
    Email: mario.ricci@adelaide.edu.au
    Location: Room 17, Level 1, Medical School North

    Lecturer: Dr Eleanor Peirce
    Phone: +61 8 8313 5191
    Email: eleanor.peirce@adelaide.edu.au
    Location: Room 31b, Level 1, Medical School North

    Lecturer: Dr Julie Haynes
    Phone: +61 8 8313 5769
    Email: julie.haynes@adelaide.edu.au
    Location: Room 27, Level 1, Medical School North

    Lecturer: Dr Renee Turner
    Phone: +61 8 8313 3144
    Email: renee.turner@adelaide.edu.au
    Location: Room 24, Level 5, Medical School North

    Lecturer: Dr Elizabeth Beckett
    Phone: +61 8 8313 5311
    Email: elizabeth.beckett@adelaide.edu.au
    Location: Room 17, Level 4, Medical School North

    Lecturer: Dr David Bentley
    Phone: +61 8 8313 1235
    Email: david.bentley@adelaide.edu.au
    Location: Room 4, Level 4, Medical School North

    Student Services Office
    Phone: +61 8 8313 5571
    Email: medical.sciences@adelaide.edu.au
    Location: Room 31, Level 1, Medical School North
    Course Timetable

    The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from Course Planner.

  • Learning Outcomes
    Course Learning Outcomes
    1 Demonstrate a basic level of knowledge of the structure of the human body at both the microscopic and macroscopic levels of organisation.
    2 Demonstrate an understanding that structure and function are interrelated, and provide specific examples of such interrelationships from within the human body.
    3 Correlate specific structural features of cells, tissues, organs and systems of the human body with their normal functions, and appreciate that alterations to structure affect function.
    4 Apply their knowledge of the human body in the interpretation of common health-related scenarios encountered in day-to-day living.
    5 Demonstrate respect for the human body and for the diversity observed within the human species.
    6 Work cooperatively in tutorials and practicals to gain deeper understanding
    7 Demonstrate research skill development including locating, critically evaluating, organising, synthesising and communicating scientific information.
    8 Develop and display the motivation necessary for ongoing independent learning.
    University Graduate Attributes

    This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:

    University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s)
    Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised. 1-5
    The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner. 7-8
    An ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems. 4-6
    Skills of a high order in interpersonal understanding, teamwork and communication. 6
    A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies. 4-7
    A commitment to continuous learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life. 4, 5, 7, 8
    An awareness of ethical, social and cultural issues within a global context and their importance in the exercise of professional skills and responsibilities. 5, 7, 8
  • Learning Resources
    Required Resources
    Course Handbook
    A hard copy of the Human Biology IA Handbook will be provided to all students during week 1 of semester. A pdf version can also be downloaded from MyUni.

    Textbook
    In 2014, the recommended textbook for Human Biology IA (and Human Biology IB in semester 2) is: Martini FH, Ober WC and Nath JL (2011) Visual Anatomy and Physiology. Benjamin Cummings, Boston.

    Please note: if you purchase a hardcopy of this textbook, you will receive an access code which enables you to view an electronic copy of the textbook on the Pearson website, as well as access to the iPad version of this textbook via the Pearson eText App: https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/pearson-etext/id410315894?mt=8
    In addition, this password will give you access to a supplemental website called Mastering A&P (Anatomy and Physiology) with interactive resources, quizzes, activities etc. Feel free to make use of this website as part of your studies. http://www.masteringaandp.com

    It is assumed that each student will have access to the recommended textbook, as most lecture topics, as well as many laboratory and tutorial exercises, are based around readings from the textbook. The Barr Smith Library contains several copies of the recommended textbook (as well as other useful anatomy and physiology textbooks), but it might not always be available every time you require it.

    This textbook recommended for Human Biology IA and IB is available for purchase from:
    - Unibooks on Campus in the Union Building, http://www.unibooks.com.au
    - Ramsay Bookshop, located at Unibooks on campus, http://www.ramsaybooks.com.au
    - Encompass Books, Shop 20, Renaissance Arcade, http://www.encompassbooks.com.au

    You may be able to purchase a second hand copy of this textbook via advertisements on notice boards around the university. If you have access to any alternate general anatomy and physiology textbook (e.g. Tortora and Derrickson, 2012, Anatomy and Physiology 13th Ed, Wiley) then you can use this textbook instead. Please note that each of the above stores also sell laboratory coats for ~$25.00 which you will need to purchase for Human Biology IA for the week 2 laboratory session.
    Recommended Resources
    In addition to the textbook, students may find a text on scientific writing, referencing and communications skills to assist with the assessment tasks and assignments, not only for Human Biology IA (and IB), but also for the other core Health Sciences courses (i.e. Public Health IA and IB). You do not need to purchase such a book as there are copies in the Barr Smith library which you can borrow. An example of a good writing skills book is:
    Summers J and Smith B 2010 Communication Skills Handbook 3rd Ed. Wiley, Brisbane
    Online Learning
    MyUni is the primary entry point to online learning at the University of Adelaide and can be accessed either on or off campus from an internet connected computer using a web browser.
    The URL is https://myuni.adelaide.edu.au/webapps/login/ and students can login using their University of Adelaide Username (student ID number preceded by the letter “a”) and Password. Once logged in to MyUni, the information displayed is specific to the person and the courses into which they are enrolled.

    All of the teaching and learning resources supporting the Human Biology IA course are made available through MyUni and it is expected that all students will use MyUni for a range of purposes including: -
    • Regularly checking for important Announcements from the course coordinator and other staff such as updates of day-to-day activities, and any changes to information in the Course Handbook.
    • Accessing course materials e.g. lecture and practical notes, tutorial papers, and past examination papers.
    • Completing pre-tutorial quizzes and online activities that contribute to assessment of Human Biology IA.
    • Checking for grades and accessing feedback on assessment tasks.
    • Communicating with fellow students and staff about course issues via the discussion boards. Please note: Discussion boards are moderated and by entering a discussion board students agree to abide by the MyUni forum guidelines, which can be found at http://www.adelaide.edu.au/its/it_policies/
  • Learning & Teaching Activities
    Learning & Teaching Modes
    Human Biology IA utilises a range of teaching and learning modes in recognition of the diversity of learning styles exhibited by the student population. Lectures identify the concepts on which human biology is based and provide basic factual information and examples illustrating these concepts. The lectures are supported by lectorials, tutorials, online quizzes, and assessment activities, all of which are designed to clarify understanding of concepts and apply them to new scenarios, often within a problem-solving context. Laboratory sessions provide an opportunity for visual and interactive learners to integrate the predominantly theoretical knowledge from lectures with that obtained via personal observations and hands on investigations, and for all students to acquire a more holistic perspective of the interactions between three-dimensional body form and functions at various hierarchical levels.

    Assessment tasks throughout the semester focus on:
    1. Understanding key concepts and content covered in classes, and
    2. Developing research skills within a range of biomedical contexts relevant to the wellbeing of humans. This is implemented progressively as the course unfolds and utilises the Research Skills Development (RSD) framework (Willison and O’Regan 2007) available at: http://www.adelaide.edu.au/rsd/
    Workload

    The information below is provided as a guide to assist students in engaging appropriately with the course requirements.

    It is expected that students will devote about 12 hours per teaching week of semester (including SWOT week) to the study of Human Biology IA. This workload expectation falls within the University of Adelaide’s guidelines of an overall workload for a full-time student of 48 hours per week over a 13-week semester, or 155 hours per 3-unit course, regardless of the course duration.

    Table 1: Workload for Human Biology IA (3 units) – total 155 hours over 13 weeks.
    WORKLOAD COMPONENT TOTAL HOURS
    Face-to-Face Contact Hours 60.5
    Lectures & Lectorials 36 x 1 hour sessions 36
    Laboratory Sessions 13 x 1 hour sessions 13
    Tutorials 9 x 1 hour sessions 9
    Examination 1 x end-of-semester examination 2.5
    Personal Study 94.5
    End-Of-Module Quizzes 6 x 1 hour (2 hours/quiz) 12
    General Study 28
    Independent Study and Assessment Tasks (as described in Assessment Section) Laboratory and Tutorial preparation/revision (1 hour/session) 22
    RSD Task 1 – 3.5 hrs
    RSD Task 2 – 4 hrs
    RSD Task 3 – 15 hrs
    22.5
    2 x Tests (5 hrs/test) 10
    TOTAL 155 HOURS
    Learning Activities Summary

    Week

    Lecture

    Module

    Topics

    Assessment Tasks

    1

    Lecture 1

    Intro

    Introduction to Human Biology

    ·    Lab 1: OH&S Quiz (0% - formative)

    Lecture 2

    Anatomical Terminology and Anatomical Position

    Lecture 3

    Module 1:

    The Cell

    The Cell: Nucleus

    2

    Lecture 4

    The Cell: Cytoplasm

     

    Lecture 5

    The Cell: Organelles

    3

    Lecture 6

    The Cell: Plasma Membrane

    ·   RSD Task 1: Source Credibility & Harvard Referencing Due (5%)

    Lecture 7

    Module 2:

    Tissues

    Tissues: Epithelium I

    Lecture 8

    Tissues: Epithelium II

    4

    Lecture 9

    Tissues: Connective Tissue I

     

    Lecture 10

    Tissues: Skin

    Lecture 11

    The Cell: LECTORIAL

    5

    Lecture 12

    Tissues: From Tissues to Organs

    ·   End-of-Module 1 Online Quiz (3%)

    Lecture 13

    Module 3:

    Bone & Muscle

    Bone & Muscle: Skeleton & Bones

    Lecture 14

    Bone & Muscle: Joints

    6

    Lecture 15

    Bone & Muscle: Muscle Tissue

    ·     RSD Task 2: How NOT To Write A Scientific Report Quiz (7%)

    Lecture 16

    Bone & Muscle: Muscle Contraction

    Lecture 17

    Tissues: LECTORIAL

     

     

    MID-SEMESTER BREAK

    ·     End-of-Module 2 Online Quiz (3%)

    7

    Lecture 18

    Module 4:

    Nervous System

    Nervous System: Introduction to Nervous System

    ·     TEST 1: Cells & Tissues (7.5%)

    Lecture 19

    Nervous System: Brain Structure & Function

    Lecture 20

    TEST 1: Cells & Tissues

    8

    Lecture 21

    Bone & Muscle: Effects of Aging & Exercise

    ·     End-of-Module 3 Online Quiz (3%)

    Lecture 22

    Nervous System: Action Potentials

    Lecture 23

    Bone & Muscle: LECTORIAL

    9

    Lecture 24

    Nervous System: Neurotransmission & Synapses

    ·     RSD Task 3: How TO Write A Scientific Report Due (15%)

    Lecture 25

    Nervous System: Motor & Sensory Pathways

    Lecture 26

    Nervous System: LECTORIAL

    10

    Lecture 27

    Module 5: Endocrinology

    Endocrinology: Hormones & Their Receptors

    ·     End-of-Module 4 Online Quiz (3%)

    Lecture 28

    Endocrinology: Regulation of Hormone Secretion

    Lecture 29

    Endocrinology: Endocrine Systems

    11

    Lecture 30

    Module 6:

    Reproduction

    Reproduction: Male Reproductive System

    ·     TEST 2: Bone, Muscle & Nervous System (7.5%)

    Lecture 31

    Reproduction: Female Reproductive System

    Lecture 32

    TEST 2: Bone, Muscles & Nervous Sys

    12

    Lecture 33

    Reproduction: Spermatogenesis vs Oogenesis

    ·   End-of-Module 5 Online Quiz (3%)

    Lecture 34

    Reproduction: Female Reproductive Cycle

    Lecture 35

    Key Endocrinology: LECTORIAL

    13

    Lecture 36

    Reproduction: LECTORIAL

    ·   End-of-Module 6 Online Quiz (3%)

    SWOT WEEK

     

    EXAMINATIONS PERIOD

    ·   Endocrine and Reproductive Systems EXAM (15%)

     

    All instructions, preparatory readings and marking criteria associated with the assessment tasks for Human Biology IA are available via MyUni. More detailed synopses of each lecture are provided later in this handbook.

    Specific Course Requirements
    Requirements for Access to Laboratories

    All students enrolled in Human Biology IA will receive a name badge sometime during week 1 of semester (see MyUni>Announcements for details). It is a requirement that you wear your name badge to all practical sessions and tutorials in Human Biology. Any student not wearing his/her name badge will not be permitted to enter the Ray Last Laboratories as entry to these facilities is restricted to eligible student groups only and entry is strictly policed. If you do not receive your name badge before the week 2 laboratory session, please contact Dr Mario Ricci.

     

    Some practical sessions involve the handling of human anatomical specimens, animal materials or chemical reagents. As part of Occupational Health and Safety requirements, a laboratory coat or some other form of protective clothing, and enclosed shoes must be worn to laboratory sessions. Provision of protective clothing is the responsibility of the student. Laboratory coats are not supplied or available for loan from the Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology. [Laboratory/dust coats are available for purchase from the major department stores and textbook suppliers (Unibooks, Ramsays, Encompass).]

     

    Please note that the wearing of appropriate protective clothing (a laboratory coat and enclosed shoes) and a name badge is compulsory for laboratory sessions held in the Ray Last Anatomy Laboratory (dissecting room). Because of Occupational Health and Safety requirements, students not complying with this policy will not be admitted to the anatomy laboratory and will be recorded as being absent from the session. NO LAB COAT - NO ENTRY - NO EXCUSES!

     

    Rules for Student Conduct in Laboratories

    It is expected that all students will behave in an appropriate and responsible manner when using facilities within the Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology. Failure to comply will result in withdrawal of permission to use the facilities from offending students.

    The University has certain obligations to both staff and students in relation to Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S), and certain other Government legislation e.g. Anatomy Act of South Australia. In order to fulfill these obligations, each student must view a “Laboratory Conduct Safety Guidelines” online induction on MyUni, and then complete the associated OH&S Induction Quiz. If you do not do complete this induction and quiz prior to the week 2 laboratory session, you will not be allowed entry into the Ray Last Anatomy laboratory (and will, thus, fail the course!)

     

    Annual Memorial and Dedication Service

    Each year approximately 80 bodies of deceased individuals are donated to the Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology, University of Adelaide, to support teaching and research efforts in medicine and other health-related professions, undertaken by all of the universities in South Australia. Donation of a body by an individual is an act of great courage and public spirit, and such a gesture often has a high emotional impact on the donor’s family and friends.

    The Memorial and Dedication Service is conducted to pay tribute to these unselfish individuals and their families, and thank them for their generous gift. Without the generosity of these people, the opportunity to study human cadavers would not be possible; hence as a student group you are indeed privileged to be able to access such material for your studies of Human Biology.

    All students enrolled in Human Biology IA are therefore strongly encouraged to attend the Memorial Service as a mark of respect for those individuals who have contributed to the opportunities available for the study of human biology. It is sobering to reflect that, unlike many other disciplines in which research materials can be readily purchased or collected, the study of human biology is dependent on the good will of the donors.

    This year the Memorial and Dedication Service is scheduled as follows:

     

    Wednesday 5th March 2014, 5.30 pm

    Bonython Hall, North Terrace, University of Adelaide

    Small Group Discovery Experience
    N/A - SGDE offered in semester 2 Human Biology IB course.
  • Assessment

    The University's policy on Assessment for Coursework Programs is based on the following four principles:

    1. Assessment must encourage and reinforce learning.
    2. Assessment must enable robust and fair judgements about student performance.
    3. Assessment practices must be fair and equitable to students and give them the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned.
    4. Assessment must maintain academic standards.

    Assessment Summary

    Assessment Task

    Task Type

    Due Date

    Weighting

    Course Learning Objectives

    RSD Task 1:

    Source Credibility & Harvard Referencing

    Summative

    11.00 am

    Monday 17th March 2014

    5%

    6, 7, 8

    RSD Task 2:

    How NOT To Write A Scientific Report

    Summative

    11.00 am

    Monday 14th April 2014

    7%

    7, 8

    RSD Task 3:

    How TO Write A Scientific Report

    Summative, redemption available

    11.00 am

    Monday 12th May 2014

    15%

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8

    Test 1:

    Cells & Tissues

    Summative

    3.10-4.00pm

    Friday 2nd May 2014

    7.5%

    1, 2, 3, 4, 8

    Test 2:

    Bone, Muscle & Nervous System

    Summative

    3.10-4.00pm

    Friday 30th May 2014

    7.5%

    1, 2, 3, 4, 8

    End-of-Module Online Quizzes

    (x6)

    Summative,

    3% each

    11.00 am on:

    - Mon 31st March (Module 1)

    - Mon 14th April (Module 2)

    - Mon 5th May (Module 3)

    - Mon 19th May (Module 4)

    - Mon 2nd June (Module 5)

    - Mon 16th June (Module 6)

    18%

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8

    Final Examination

    Summative

    During Semester 1 Examinations Period

    40%

    1, 2, 3, 4, 8

    Total

     

     

    100%

     

    Assessment Related Requirements
    Minimum Requirements to Receive a Pass Grade

    To achieve a pass grade, students must:

    ·  Attend at least 80% of all scheduled laboratory sessions and 80% of all tutorials.  Failure to do so may result in preclusion from sitting the examination.  Students precluded from the examination will be deemed to have failed the course and must repeat all course components.

    ·  Obtain an aggregate grade of at least 40% for the (3) final examination paper.

    ·  Obtain an aggregate pass grade (overall minimum of at least 50%) for the RSD assessment tasks.

    Failure to meet these minimum course requirements may result in a Fail (F) grade. Replacement examinations may be offered to students with examination grades of <40% if the course coordinator considers that the student has a realistic chance of achieving an overall pass grade for the course.


    Attendance at Scheduled Classes

    Records of attendance are kept for all practical sessions and tutorials, and students who do not attend at least 80% of each of these class types without good cause may be precluded from sitting the final examination*. Students are requested to notify the course coordinator Dr Mario Ricci by email (mario.ricci@adelaide.edu.au) of any absences from practical and/or tutorial sessions. Submission of a medical certificate is required in support of absences due to illness, and documentation from an independent person (e.g. counsellor, EWO) must support cases of absence on compassionate grounds. Copies of all medical certificates and other supporting documentation can be emailed to Dr Ricci or lodged in the Human Biology mailbox located immediately opposite the lifts, level 1, Medical School North building. Please attach a completed supporting “Student Absence” coversheet (which is available from the Course Documents folder on MyUni) to your supporting documents.

    While it is recognised that many students are engaged in paid part-time employment to fund their studies, such work commitments are NOT an acceptable reason for non-attendance at laboratory sessions, tutorials and examinations.

    * Any student precluded from sitting the final examination for the course will be deemed not to have met the minimum requirements and a Fail grade for the course will be recorded on the student’s academic transcript. Students obtaining this grade are required to repeat the entire course at any subsequent attempt. 


    Participation and Conduct in Tutorials and Laboratory Sessions

    It is expected that all students will actively participate in discussions and complete the tasks incorporated into the notes accompanying practical and tutorial sessions. Since all tutorial and practical content is examinable, those students who prepare for and actively participate in sessions are more likely to achieve higher grades in the online assessments and final examination. Sample answers for each laboratory and tutorial handout will be available on MyUni.

    Assessment Detail
    What Assessment Methods and Why?

    Surveys undertaken in previous years indicate that students enrolling in the BHlthSc program, and more recently the B Psychology(Hons) and BPsychSc, come from a range of social and educational backgrounds, choose to study Human Biology for a variety of reasons (other than that it is a compulsory requirement of the Health Sciences Program!), and have different expectations of what they will achieve by undertaking the courses.  The assessment practices for Human Biology IA (and IB in semester 2) recognise this diversity of interest and background and acknowledge that not every student will have all of the skills required to immediately cope with university level courses dealing with what might be unfamiliar subject material. Hence a variety of assessment formats and activities aimed at equipping students with necessary skills, as well as building and consolidating a knowledge base, are used. These include research skill development (RSD) tasks, laboratory and tutorial activities conducted throughout the semesters, tests (x2) and a final end-of-semester examination.

     

    Referencing and Assessment Tasks

    Consistent and accurate referencing of sources used in the preparation of assessment tasks and other written work is an area that many students find difficult, but which is extremely important in academic writing. There are many different referencing systems or styles and the one you will be asked to use may vary from course to course.

    For Human Biology IA the system of referencing that you will use is the Harvard (author/date) system. This system uses:

    ·   Bracketed references to the author(s) and year of publication in the body of the text, AND

    ·   A reference list organised in alphabetical order (according to the first listed author of each source) at the end of the piece of writing.

    Harvard referencing will form the basis of RSD Task 1.

     

    Tips and Warning Related to Plagiarism

    All students are strongly encouraged to discuss course materials and assessment tasks with their peers. Often new ideas and perspectives can be gained through listening to, and sharing in, the experiences of others. The formation of small study groups is a good way to share information and ideas and to learn from others.

    It is essential, however, that all work presented for assessment by a student is his or her own work, unless permission has been obtained from the course coordinators or examiner to present material as a joint or group effort. Always write assignments independently, use your own words and acknowledge the contributions of others. Representing the words or ideas of others as your own, or failing to duly acknowledge the sources of your information, is known as plagiarism, and in essence amounts to academic theft or fraud. Other forms of plagiarism include submitting the same piece of work for assessment in two different courses, submitting another student’s work as your own, and the presentation of fabricated or falsified data or results of laboratory, field or other work as genuine.

    Plagiarism is considered an extremely serious matter by the University of Adelaide and may result in failure of an assessment task, or even suspension from the University. In Human Biology IA, we will spend time in teaching sessions early in the course dealing with issues relating to plagiarism. Often, students are “caught out” through their ignorance of acceptable practice, rather than as a result of a blatant attempt to cheat. Examples of unacceptable practices (detected in previous years of the Human Biology course), which you might not realise are forms of plagiarism, include copying answers to tutorial or laboratory exercises directly from text books or from the internet (with or without acknowledging the source of the information), or submitting the same material (sometimes even including the same grammatical and spelling mistakes!) as a number of other individuals in the class. Such behaviours are not consistent with the aims and objectives of the Human Biology courses.

    Useful guidelines on how to avoid plagiarism, plus other study strategies are available from the Writing Centre website at http://www.adelaide.edu.au/writingcentre/plagiarism/

    Whilst we aim to educate you about how to avoid plagiarism, cases of suspected plagiarism will be addressed in accordance with the University’s Plagiarism Policy available at http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/230 This policy defines and outlines the University’s prohibition of plagiarism and summarises the ways in which the University prevents, detects and penalises plagiarism.

    In Human Biology IA, you will be required to submit your major RSD Task 3 assignment electronically online via Turnitin. Turnitin is an online service that checks your report for plagiarism (i.e. copying from sources and other students). Students found guilty of plagiarism may receive a grade of zero (0) for their report, and could be further penalized as detailed in the University’s Academic Honesty Policy. More information on Turnitin will be posted on MyUni.

     

    RSD Task 1: Source Credibility and Harvard Referencing

    Full details of this assessment task are available on MyUni.

    Aims:

    Through completion of RSD Task 1, each student will have the opportunity to develop and refine research skills related to:

    ·   Develop and/or refine skills in critical appraisal of literature and information sources for their relevance, credibility and validity.

    ·   Develop skills in retrieving appropriate data using search engines, catalogues and scientific databases.

    ·   Develop and refine research skills related to correct use of the Harvard (author-date) referencing style. Good academic practice in citation and referencing will help you to avoid risking plagiarism.

    Resources and Requirements for Task:

    In order to complete this assessment task, each student will need to access the following files from the Human Biology IA Assignments folder on MyUni:

    ·   RSD Task 1: Source Credibility and Harvard Referencing task instruction sheet.

    ·   Guidelines explaining the how to find credible sources, and Harvard referencing. Links to several online resources will be provided on MyUni, but each student is expected to view the University’s Harvard Referencing Guide:

    http://www.adelaide.edu.au/writingcentre/learning_guides/learningGuide_sourceCredibility.pdf

    Summary of Task:

    Each student will be asked to read guides on how to find credible sources of information, and how to references sources correctly using the Harvard style of referencing. Students must then complete an online RSD Task 1: Source Credibility and Harvard Referencing Quiz to test how much they have learnt about such these topics.

     

    RSD Task 2: How NOT to Write a Scientific Report

    Full details of this assessment task and marking criteria are available via MyUni.

    Aims:

    Through completion of RSD Task 2, each student will have the opportunity to develop and refine research skills related to:

    ·   The correct format and layout of a scientific report.

    ·   Critical appraisal of a scientific piece of writing, by critically reviewing examples of acceptable and unacceptable first year Human Biology assignments.

    Resources and Requirements for Task:

    In order to complete this assessment task, each student will need to access the following files from the Human Biology IA Assignments folder on MyUni:-

    ·   RSD Task 2: How NOT to Write a Scientific Report Task Instruction sheet.

    ·   Report 1: Lactose Intolerance.

    ·   Report 2: Osteoporosis.

    Summary of Task:

    Each student will be asked to first read Report 1: Lactose Intolerance, which is an example of an acceptable first year student report. The report includes staff annotations explaining why this it is a good report. Students must then read the Report 2: Osteoporosis, which is an example of an unacceptable student report. Each student must determine why this report is unacceptable by looking for errors and deficiencies in the report. Each student must then complete an online RSD Task 2: How NOT to Write a Scientific Report Quiz to demonstrate what he or she has learned.

     

    RSD Task 3: How TO Write a Scientific Report

    Full details of this assessment task, including the marking criteria rubric, are available on MyUni.

    Aims:

    Through completion of RSD Task 3: How TO Write a Scientific Report, each student will have the opportunity to develop and refine research skills in the retrieval and evaluation of scientific information on a specified topic and further develop the research skills introduced in RSD Tasks 1 & 2. In particular, this task will enable students to:

    ·  Develop skills in retrieving appropriate data using search engines, catalogues and scientific databases.

    ·  Develop and/or refine skills in critical appraisal of literature and information sources for their relevance, credibility and validity.

    ·   Analyse and synthesise data and ideas from the literature to produce a short report on a specific aspect of a more general topic that is presented in a logical and organised manner.

    ·  Develop and/or refine skills in the appropriate acknowledgement of data sources and ideas attributable to other individuals.

    ·   Construct a reference list that accurately documents the sources of all data and ideas cited within the short scientific report produced.

    ·   Become familiar with and accurately apply the Harvard (author-date) style of reference citation.

    In order to successfully complete RSD Task 3: How TO Write a Scientific Report each student must first select an appropriate research topic around which to base his/her search for scientific literature.

    Summary of Task:

    Each student must select an appropriate, focussed research topic related to content covered in Human Biology IA. Students will search for information on their assigned topic using a variety of methods including catalogues, search engines and databases. At least seven sources of designated types must be selected (3 online + 3 journal articles + 1 specialised text) and the information within them used to prepare a short scientific report (no more than 4-5 A4-sized pages, 1.5 line spaced, 12 point Arial font) addressing the specific topic selected. All information sources will be appropriately acknowledged within the text of the report, and full bibliographic details recorded in an appended reference list. The Harvard (author-date) referencing style will be used.

     

    End of Module Quizzes

    Each student must complete six (6) End-Of-Module Online Quizzes. These quizzes (which consist of a variety of questions including multiple choice, true/false, short answer etc.) are aimed at focusing students on key concepts and developing and consolidating knowledge related to these concepts. They also provide opportunities for feedback on your progress and level of understanding, with a view to remediating misconceptions. More information on these quizzes will be posted on MyUni.

     

    Tests (x2)

    Two short tests have been scheduled for the Friday lecture sessions in weeks 7 and 11. The week 7 test covers lecture, tutorial and lab content discussed in Modules 1 & 2 (cells and tissues), and the week 11 test covers lecture, tutorial and lab content doicussed in Modules 2 & 4 (bone, joints, muscle and nervous system). More information on the format of these tests will be posted on MyUni., but it is expected that they will consists of multiple-choice questions.

     

    Examination Paper

    The end of semester examination is held in the Official University Examination period from Saturday 21st June – Saturday 5th July 2014. The precise date of the Human Biology IA exam will be made available to students in May 2014 on the Examinations website: http://www.adelaide.edu.au/student/exams/ The paper is of 2.5 hours duration, but most students should be able to complete it in 2 hours; the additional time is provided to enable planning and review of answers. Copies of previous examination papers are available on MyUni. Note that a range of question styles is used within the examination paper, which require students to provide information, apply information in defined settings, and/or integrate knowledge derived from a variety of sources in the formulation of an answer.

     

    All aspects of the course are examinable, including materials presented in lectures, tutorial and practical sessions. The course objectives should be used as a guide for preparation for the examination, and opportunities to discuss potential examination questions and responses will be provided throughout the semester in tutorial and practical sessions.

     

    Position on Exemptions from Assessment Components for Repeating Students

    Students who have previously failed Human Biology IA, and who are enrolled in the course for a second or subsequent time, are required to repeat all assessment tasks and must meet the minimum course requirements in order to receive a pass grade. Exemptions from assessment tasks on account of their successful completion in a previous attempt of a course will not usually be given.

    Submission
    Detailed instructions on submission of all assessment tasks will be provided in the task instruction sheet for each task. All RSD tasks must be submitted electronically via MyUni, i.e. there is no paper submission of assignments and quizzes.

     

    It is anticipated that marked assessment tasks will be returned to students within 3-4 weeks of the submission due date. Feedback may be provided via one or more of the following methods: the marking rubric, limited written comments on the task and/or on the rubric, an oral summary of the class strengths and weaknesses in completion of the task, and a written class summary sheet made available to students via MyUni.

     

    Position on the Granting of Extensions for Assessment Tasks

    All students have a right to request an extension in situations where they are unable to complete a piece of work by the prescribed deadline due to compassionate or medical reasons, and consequently would be unreasonably disadvantaged. The types of personal or extenuating circumstances usually considered on compassionate grounds include the death of a close relative or friend, incidents of violence or abuse, indications of significant psychological difficulties or conditions, or major changes in personal circumstances largely beyond the direct control of the student. Extensions of deadlines for compassionate or medical reasons are granted in cases where the severity of impairment justifies the granting of supplementary assessment, and provided that the student provides valid supporting documentation. Where a student requests an extension for other than compassionate or medical reasons, or in situations where the student does not have supporting evidence, the decision to grant an extension is discretionary and rests with the course coordinator. In such cases, the duration of any extension, if granted, will normally be 24 hours. Note that extensions will NOT be approved on the grounds of poor prioritising of time or because of paid work commitments as timelines for all assessment tasks are provided to students at the commencement of the course, and effort is made to stagger deadlines between common courses wherever possible.

     

    NOTE: The following information is currently under review and subject to change.

    Any updates will be posted on MyUni.

     

    Students seeking an extension for an assessment task in Human Biology IA must follow the following procedure:

    1.      Application for an extension must be made by the last working day before the submission date of the assessment task concerned. [The deadline for extension requests will normally be a Friday, as most tasks are due on a Monday.] Failure to apply for an extension within the allowable timeframe will result in the application not being considered, and penalties for late submission will apply.

    2.      All applications for extensions must be in writing (email is acceptable) and addressed to the course coordinator Dr Mario Ricci. Students are encouraged to discuss their options for completion of the task with the coordinator, and are required to PROVIDE DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE IN SUPPORT OF THE EXTENSION REQUESTED. Examples of supporting documents that are acceptable include: a medical certificate that specifies dates of incapacity, a police report for incidences of computer theft etc., a letter from a University Student Counsellor, Education and Welfare Officer (EWO), or Disability Liaison Officer, that provides an assessment of compassionate circumstances, or a letter from an independent external counsellor or appropriate professional able to verify the student’s situation. The length of any extension granted will take into account the period and severity of any incapacity or impact on the student. Extensions of more than 1 week will not be granted except in exceptional circumstances.

    3.      An email of confirmation of the new deadline from the course coordinator, and documentation in support of the extension (if not provided to the course coordinator at the time of application for the extension) must be attached to the back of the assessment task when it is submitted. Lodgment of the task and all supporting documentation must occur by the negotiated deadline.

    4.      Students who do not formally apply for an extension or who have not discussed their options for completion of the task with the course coordinators will not automatically be granted an extension, irrespective of the reasons for late submission, and penalties will apply.

    Please note that all information and supporting documentation provided by students in applications for an extension of time for an assessment task or assignment will be treated in the strictest confidence and stored appropriately.

     

    Penalties for Late Submission of Assessment Tasks 

    Assessment tasks must be submitted by the stated deadlines (as notified in this handbook and on MyUni) and a penalty for late submission of assessment tasks will apply for Human Biology IA. All submitted work, including that handed in late will be marked “without prejudice” (i.e. on its merits) but in the case of late assessment tasks, marks will then be deducted from the original mark awarded.

     

    Coursework received after the deadline will be penalised as follows:

    5% of total available points will be penalised per day (24 hour period or fraction thereof). An automatic zero mark will be applied after 7 days. For example, an assignment submitted any time after the deadline up to 24 hours late will be penalized 5%, i.e. a 75% grade would become 70%, and a 55% grade would become 50%.

     

    Also, any assessment task that is not lodged as per instructions in the RSD Task instruction handout (for example an assignment that is submitted on paper rather than electronically) will NOT be marked and may receive a grade of zero (0). It is each student’s responsibility to ensure that tasks are lodged as per instructions.

     

    RSD Task 3 Resubmission Policy

    A resubmission policy has been developed for RSD Task 3 only as follows:

     

    Q. I failed the RSD Task 3. Can I revise and resubmit this task?

    A. Students who received a Fail grade (less than 50%), and who submitted their task by the due date, are permitted to revise and resubmit their task provided they complete the steps outlined below. The maximum grade possible for a resubmitted task is 50% Pass. Any student who submitted their original task after the due date (i.e. late) is INELIGIBLE to resubmit their task. Please note: An opportunity to revise and resubmit your task is no guarantee that a pass grade will be granted. Furthermore, the grade for your resubmitted task will replace your original grade. It is, therefore, possible that your resubmitted task grade may be lower than your original grade - this is a risk you take if you resubmit your task.

     

    Q. How do I resubmit my RSD Task 3? What "steps" do I need to complete?

    A. To resubmit your task you must follow the steps below:

    STEP 1: View your original marked task + marking criteria rubric via Turnitin on MyUni.

    STEP 2: Review any assessor comments/feedback, as well as the completed marking criteria rubric, to determine how/why you failed the task.

    STEP 3: Students have until 5pm Friday 13th June 2014 to update and resubmit both the ‘Resubmit’ coversheet AND their updated RSD Task 3 assignment to Turnitin via the following link:

    MyUni>Human Biology IA>Assignments>RSD Task 3>RSD Task 3 Remark OR Resubmit. A ‘Resubmission Cover Sheet’ can only be obtained from Room N131 (School of Medical Sciences Student Services Office, room 31, level 1, Medical School North) – it will NOT be available online on MyUni. Resubmission by email or post is NOT permitted.

     

    Q. When will the resubmitted RSD Task 3 be marked?

    A. Resubmitted tasks will be marked, and final grades made available on MyGrades and Turnitin by no later than 5pm Friday 27th June 2014. Please note: Resubmitted work may not receive written or verbal feedback.

     

    Q. I passed my RSD Task 3 but would also like to revise and resubmit my task. Is this possible?

    A. No.


    RSD Task 3 Remark Policy

    A remark policy has been developed for RSD Task 3 only as follows:

     

    Q. I am unhappy with my RSD Task 3 grade. Can I request that it be re-marked?

    A. Yes, any student who is dissatisfied with his/her grade for the RSD Task 3, and who submitted their task by the due date may request that it is remarked, however the following procedure must be followed. Please note: Any student who submitted their original task after the due date (i.e. late) is INELIGIBLE to have their task re-marked.

    STEP 1: Students must review any assessor comments/feedback, as well as the completed marking criteria rubric, on Turnitin, to try to determine how/why they were awarded the mark they received.

    STEP 2: Students must complete a "Re-Mark" coversheet incorporating a half-one page long written statement explaining specifically why you believe your report should be re-marked. Provide specific examples of why you disagree with the assessor's mark for each of the facets on the marking criteria rubric. General and/or unsupported statement will NOT be considered, and your report will NOT be remarked.

    STEP 3: Students have until 5pm Friday 13th June 2014 to submit the "Remark" coversheet to Turnitin via the following link: MyUni>Human Biology IA>Assignments>RSD Task 3>RSD Task 3 Remark OR Resubmit. Late, and incomplete, submissions will not be considered. Applications for remark not submitted via Turnitin will not be considered.

     

    Please note: A different assessor will remark your report. The grade for your re-marked assignment will replace your original grade. It is, therefore, possible that your re-mark grade may be lower than your original grade - this is a risk you take if you ask for your assignment to be re-marked. Also, the grade for your re-marked assignment will replace your original grade. It is, therefore, possible that your re-mark grade may be lower than your original grade - this is a risk you take if you ask for your assignment to be re-marked.

     

    Q. When will assignments be re-marked?

    A. Remarked tasks will be marked, and final grades made available on MyGrades and Turnitin, by no later than 5pm Friday 27th June 2014. Please note: Re-marked work may not receive written or verbal feedback.

     

    Q. I failed my RSD Task 3. Can my report be re-marked instead of revised and resubmitted?

    A. Yes, you can request that your original report be re-marked in place of revising and resubmitting it - please follow the steps outlined above. HOWEVER, if you choose to have your assignment re-marked you forfeit the right to resubmit it at a late date should the outcome of the remark not be in your favour.

     

    Q. Even after resubmission and/or re-marking, I am still unhappy with my final grade. What can I do?

    A. If you remain dissatisfied with your result, please contact Dr Mario Ricci and request information on how to initiate a grievance procedure.

     

    REPLACEMENT/ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT (R/AA) EXAMS

    Formerly known as supplementary exams, R/AA are examinations that provide an additional opportunity to students whose academic performance was impaired by circumstances outside of their control in the primary examinations, or whose performance marginally failed to meet minimum course requirements.

    Students are able to apply for Replacement (R) Examinations on medical or compassionate grounds, or due to extenuating circumstances. The results of R/AA offered on medical and/or compassionate grounds are classified using the normal grading system. However, if you completed the primary exam, and then have a R/AA, your existing mark for the primary exam will be replaced by the mark from the R/AA, regardless of whether the latter is higher or lower.

    Additional Assessment (AA) examination may be offered to a student if their final result is in the range of 45-49, or if they have an aggregate result of >50 but have not achieved the minimum acceptable mark for the primary examination and have a realistic chance of meeting the minimum achievement level required in the examination. The results of the R/AA on academic grounds will not be graded above the level of 50 Pass. Where a R/AA on academic grounds produces an overall result that differs from the primary result, the better of the two results will apply.

    Information Sheets and Application Forms for Replacement Examination are available from the Examination’s website at: http://www.adelaide.edu.au/student/exams/supps.html

    Please note that the granting of R/AA is discretionary. In some cases R/AA may be of a different format to the primary examination, e.g. an oral examination, rather than a written paper.

    Course Grading

    Grades for your performance in this course will be awarded in accordance with the following scheme:

    M10 (Coursework Mark Scheme)
    Grade Mark Description
    FNS   Fail No Submission
    F 1-49 Fail
    P 50-64 Pass
    C 65-74 Credit
    D 75-84 Distinction
    HD 85-100 High Distinction
    CN   Continuing
    NFE   No Formal Examination
    RP   Result Pending

    Further details of the grades/results can be obtained from Examinations.

    Grade Descriptors are available which provide a general guide to the standard of work that is expected at each grade level. More information at Assessment for Coursework Programs.

    Final results for this course will be made available through Access Adelaide.

  • Student Feedback

    The University places a high priority on approaches to learning and teaching that enhance the student experience. Feedback is sought from students in a variety of ways including on-going engagement with staff, the use of online discussion boards and the use of Student Experience of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys as well as GOS surveys and Program reviews.

    SELTs are an important source of information to inform individual teaching practice, decisions about teaching duties, and course and program curriculum design. They enable the University to assess how effectively its learning environments and teaching practices facilitate student engagement and learning outcomes. Under the current SELT Policy (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/101/) course SELTs are mandated and must be conducted at the conclusion of each term/semester/trimester for every course offering. Feedback on issues raised through course SELT surveys is made available to enrolled students through various resources (e.g. MyUni). In addition aggregated course SELT data is available.

    The University places a high priority on approaches to learning and teaching that enhance the student experience. Feedback is sought from students in a variety of ways including on-going engagement with staff, the use of online discussion boards and the use of Student Experience of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys as well as CEQ surveys and Program reviews.

     

    SELTs are an important source of information to inform individual teaching practice, decisions about teaching duties, and course and program curriculum design. They enable the University to assess how effectively its learning environments and teaching practices facilitate student engagement and learning outcomes. Under the current SELT Policy http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/101/ course SELTs are mandated and must be conducted at least once every 2 years. Feedback on issues raised through course SELT surveys is made available to enrolled students through various resources (e.g. MyUni). In addition aggregated course SELT data can be found at: http://www.adelaide.edu.au/clpd/selt/aggregates

     

    CHANGES TO HUMAN BIOLOGY IA AS A RESULT OF STUDENT FEEDBACK IN 2013

    In response to student comments, the following changes to Human Biology IA have been implemented for 2014:

    ·   Simpler handouts, and more directed learning, in Ray Last Anatomy laboratory sessions.

    ·   Introduction of online laboratory sessions so that students can complete activities at their own convenience (i.e. increased flexibility).

    ·   Three short exams scheduled throughout the semester (instead of one large examination at the end of the semester). Students now have less content to learn for each exam.

    ·   Introduction of ‘lectorials’ at the end of each module in lecture time to help students review key content/concepts, as well as test their own knowledge.

    ·   End-of-Module Quizzes have bee rewritten to better reflect lecture and tutorial content.

    ·   Electronic submission of all assessment tasks via MyUni.

    ·  No tutorials and laboratory sessions scheduled in week 1 of semester to minimize timetable confusion and give students plenty of time to settle into University. 

  • Student Support
  • Policies & Guidelines
  • Fraud Awareness

    Students are reminded that in order to maintain the academic integrity of all programs and courses, the university has a zero-tolerance approach to students offering money or significant value goods or services to any staff member who is involved in their teaching or assessment. Students offering lecturers or tutors or professional staff anything more than a small token of appreciation is totally unacceptable, in any circumstances. Staff members are obliged to report all such incidents to their supervisor/manager, who will refer them for action under the university's student’s disciplinary procedures.

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.