Module Details

Module Code: AGRI S9Z01
Full Title: Animal Genetics
Valid From:: Semester 1 - 2019/20 ( June 2019 )
Language of Instruction:English
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits:: 7.5
Module Owner:: Caroline Gilleran
Departments: Unknown
Module Description: This module provides students with an understanding of animal genetics, selective breeding, lineage traceability and epigenetics.
 
Module Learning Outcome
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Module Learning Outcome Description
MLO1 Appraise the use of molecular genetics and selective breeding techniques to improve animal production efficiency.
MLO2 Critically assess and evaluate the role of molecular genetics in animal health.
MLO3 Discuss the importance of parental traceability and molecular markers in animal breeding.
MLO4 Analyse the influence of epigenetics on livestock nutrition, genetics and breeding.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named DkIT module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
No recommendations listed
 
Module Indicative Content
Introduction to Genetics
DNA, genes, chromosomes and genetic inheritance; Mendelian genetics.
Genetics and Breeding
Traditional breeding; Cross breeding; Monogenic and polygenic traits; Indicator traits; Breeding for increased efficiency; Marker assisted selection; Genomic selection; Genome mapping and identification of key genes; Genetic diversity; Factors affecting the rate of genetic gain.
Genetics and Traceability
Importance of genetics and traceability for breeding; Tagging; Molecular Parentage testing; Use of molecular markers for traceability.
Genetics and Animal Health
The role of molecular genetics in animal health; Genetic and cellular basis of disease susceptibility and resistance in farm animals; Immunological, molecular and cellular events involved in animal response to disease; Identification of key disease resistance genes.
Epigenetics
The influence of epigenetics on livestock nutrition, genetics and breeding. Gene expression in areas such as dairy fertility and mastitis resistance. Functional genomics to analyse responses of individual animals (e.g. stress response / environmental responses).
Module Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Course Work40.00%
Final Examination60.00%
Module Special Regulation
 

Assessments

Full Time On Campus

Course Work
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 30
Marks Out Of 0 Pass Mark 0
Timing n/a Learning Outcome 3
Duration in minutes 0
Assessment Description
Laboratory practicals and site-visits. e.g. genetic analysis through PCR, expression patterns of proteins in organisms / tissues, bioinformatics
Assessment Type Continuous Assessment % of Total Mark 10
Marks Out Of 0 Pass Mark 0
Timing S1 Week 8 Learning Outcome 1,2,3
Duration in minutes 0
Assessment Description
CA component will consist of a class test, essay (or other project), presentation on a relevant (current) topic followed by a discussion/debating session or a similarly relevant assessment. This will cover one or more of the Learning Outcomes for the module.
No Project
No Practical
Final Examination
Assessment Type Formal Exam % of Total Mark 60
Marks Out Of 0 Pass Mark 0
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcome 1,2,3
Duration in minutes 0
Assessment Description
End of semester final examination
Reassessment Requirement
A repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.

DKIT reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time On Campus
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact This module will consist of 3hrs each week for lectures or practicals (two 3hr practicals per semester) Every Week 2.50 2.5
Tutorial Contact Tutorials will be used to support lectures / practicals Every Second Week 0.50 1
Online Contact Contact On-line discussion forum Every Week 0.50 0.5
Practical Contact This module will contain two 3hr practicals per semester, instead of lectures Twice per semester 0.00 0
Independent Study Non Contact No Description Every Week 5.00 5
Directed Reading Non Contact No Description Every Week 2.50 2.5
Total Weekly Learner Workload 11.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.50
This module has no Part Time On Campus workload.
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • T. A. Brown. (2010), Gene Cloning and DNA Analysis: An Introduction, 6th edition.
  • T. Grandin, M.J. Deesing (eds). (2014), Genetics and the behaviour of domesticated animals, 2nd edition. Academic Press.
Supplementary Book Resources
  • T. Brown. (2012), Introduction to genetics, a molecular approach, Garland Science.
Recommended Article/Paper Resources
  • Current research publications from peer-reviewed journals will be used as additional material.
This module does not have any other resources