Data Analysis and Information Processing in Biomedical Sciences: 
A 2nd year module in the degree of BSc in Biomedical Sciences at the 
University of Aberdeen.

F. Bowser-Riley, Biomedical Sciences, Marischal College, University of 
Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB9 1AS.
 
The objective of this  course (12 week, one third full time) is to provide a 
knowledge base concerning methods of information retrieval, data processing 
and presentation of scientific material by means of active development of 
teamwork, communication and information technology skills.

The course consists of lectures, tutorials, group discussions and directed 
microcomputer working sessions concerned with data analysis and information 
processing in Biomedical Sciences. Following an initial period on the use of 
the personal computer, undergraduates are required to analyse sets of 
experimental data drawn from a range of anatomical and physiological examples. 
The skills involved in the analysis,  presentation and communication of 
scientific information are developed further by each individual in the 
context of a researched 3,500 word project essay.  The essay topic is selected 
within an area of Biomedical Science not previously encountered by the
undergraduate.  Instruction is given in the use of library resources 
(including IT based bibliographic searching techniques) and in the 
presentation of scientific papers and oral communications.  Progress is 
reviewed  by individuals within designated support groups and by means of 
regular tutorials. Each undergraduate is required to submit the project essay 
in electronic format, and to present a summary of it orally using electronic 
media.  A component of the continuous assessment of each undergraduate is 
derived from a peer assessment of the oral presentation based on agreed
criteria.

The contents of the learning pack can be found in the contents.wpf file in 
the zipped BM2005 file set.