BL4200 Literature based Research Project
(BL4200 online module handbook version 47)
This project will involve an extensive literature review to investigate a defined hypothesis or problem within the field of biology, appropriate to the degree programme being studied by each student. The project will involve diligence, initiative and independence in pursuing the literature, and the production of a high-quality dissertation that demonstrates a deep understanding of the chosen area of research. Students will be allocated to a member of staff who will guide and advise them in research activities throughout the academic year. The project will be written up in the form of a research dissertation.
*Credits: 30*
Semester: 3†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Permission of Biology Honours Adviser required*
Anti-requisite Modules:You cannot take this module if you take BL4201 or take PN4299*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL4200: Assessment
Coursework = 100% (10% - Thesis outline and resource list 1,000 words 70% - Written thesis 15,000 words 20% - Viva (20 minutes))*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL4200: Contributing Staff †
BL4200: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL4200 successfully should be able to:
- Research a defined field of biology using primary sources and clearly define a key research hypothesis
- Write a critical and analytical evaluation of the current literature in a chosen field
- Write in a defined style appropriate to a lay audience or an expert in the field
- Acquire an in-depth and detailed understanding of a chosen field in biology
- Perform literature-based research to a high standard, keeping accurate and detailed records
- Report on a research investigation, critically evaluating and analysing the results in the context of current knowledge
- Communicate verbally scientific information accurately and succinctly
BL4200: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
Transferable Skills
- Short informal presentation (using PowerPoint or not)
- VIVA Examination
- Long essay (>2000 words)
- Research proposal
- Summary
- Critically evaluating sources/information
- Finding information on the web
- Finding literature
- Referencing
- Searching databases
- Sourcing figures/tables
- Produce graphs/figures
- Produce tables
- Lab or field notebook
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/