Syllabus

EX0854 Independent project in Biology, G2E, 15.0 Credits

Subjects

Education cycle

Modules

Advanced study in the main field

Grading scale

Language

Prior knowledge

Objectives

The aim of the course is for the student, based on previously acquired knowledge, to independently plan, carry out and present an independent project within a given time frame. Through the independent project, the student will develop their skills in academic writing and deepen their subject knowledge.

On completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• identify problems and formulate questions within a given subject;

• independently search, compile, evaluate and interpret relevant information and data based on a critically formulated question;

• critically discuss content, findings and conclusions in a scientific work, as well as reflect on how questions and choice of method relate to the scientific and practical basis of the subject;

• reflect on social and ethical aspects as well as sustainability aspects of the subject;

• present a written scientific work, according to the prevailing practice of the discipline, adapted to the intended audience and according to the instructions given;

• orally present a scientific work, as well as critically review and give constructive criticism of another student’s work;

• identify their own skill and knowledge development needs for the subject of the independent project.

Content

The course involves carrying out an independent project under supervision. The project can be carried out based on existing data from experimental or practical work, or as a literature review. The format depends on the subject and the question to be examined, as well as on the availability of suitable data and information. The work is carried out either individually or in pairs.

The set-up of the independent project should be documented in a project plan established in consultation with the supervisor before the project starts.

The project is to be presented in writing as well as orally, as seminars or an equivalent format, and according to the instructions given. The course also involves taking part in a public discussion of another student’s project in order to assess the ability to give constructive criticism.

Grading form

Formats and requirements for examination

A Pass grade for the written report and the oral presentation, as well as a Pass grade for the critical review of another student’s project. If the work has been carried out in pairs, it must be made clear to the examiner what each individual has contributed; this applies to both the written work and the oral presentation. The work effort and the scope of the work should correspond to 15 credits for each student, and each student must fulfil all intended learning outcomes. If the student has not received a Pass grade for a test, the examiner has the right to give a supplementary assignment, provided this is feasible and can be justified.

• If the student has been granted learning support due to a disability, the examiner has the right to offer an adapted test or let the student take the test in an alternative manner.

• If this course syllabus is changed, or if the course is discontinued, SLU shall decide on transition rules for examination of students admitted under this syllabus but who have not yet completed the course.

• For the examination of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow the student to add supplemental information after the submission date. For more information on this, please refer to the regulations for education at Bachelor’s and Master’’s level.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Additional information

Responsible department

Department of Plant Protection Biology