This course will describe the way biologists generate and assess evidence.  The use of biological models from bacteria, plants and animals will be discussed, with their advantages and limitations.  The value of different experimental approaches including hypothesis-driven research and large scale data generation, such as genome sequencing projects will be considered.  Quantitative reasoning and analysis will be introduced with examples of its application to biological problems.  Students will participate in one of a few practical exercises to develop and test hypotheses and then, as a group, compare and contrast the application of statistical approaches to interpret the data.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Apply different experimental approaches in biology and know when to use experimental models.

2. Design biological experiments to address specific questions

3. Demonstrate practical skills and critical analysis and interpretation of qualitative and quantitative data.

4. Describe and apply different statistical approaches to result analysis and interpretation

5. Apply the knowledge gained to problem-solving and other areas of biology.

• Practical report (25%) (LO 2, 3)
• Written work comparing statistical approaches (25%) (LO 1, 4)
• Exam 50% (LO 1,2,4,5)

Up to 65 contact hours per semester, involving two lectures per week, four practical sessions and up to six small and large tutorials.

Bachelor degree with first year biology; some knowledge of statistics.