Aims

Science is an ebb and flow of discovery and innovation. The scientific research community is experiencing a rapid increase in the size of the data sets our experiments generate. This has meant we have had to alter our data analysis skill-set to analyse, draw conclusions and present our studies in an understandable format.

A good example of where we as scientists are learning and continually improving our skill set is within the field of Bioinformatics. In this module we aim to examine the uses of various tools to analyse the large datasets we are now generating. We will also provide you with several case studies where these tools have been or are being exploited in research.

A key aspect of the underpinning skills required for bioinformatics is the ability to have confidence in exploiting a PC or MAC for more than our usual activities of document generation in MS Word, analysis of data using software such as MS excel and social media access.

• train students in using one analysis platform that is used across the bioinformatics sector
• explore the use of health informatics to improve the quality and safety of patient care
• examine the uses of various tools to analyse the large datasets
• generate an understanding, and an appreciation, of databases, workflows, and basic coding
• give the students the theory behind, and the practice in using, modern bioinformatic analysis tools

Outline Of Syllabus

The following topics and themes will be covered in this module:

• An introduction to the analysis platform R
• Impact of Next Generation Sequence Technologies on Science
• Impact of CHiP-seq and RNA-seq on experimental design
• Statistical analysis of large datasets as a mean to identify experimental robustness
• Importance of choosing the right data presentation style
• the use of computer code in data analysis
• the use of health informatics to improve the quality and safety of patient car

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

In this module we will exploit the learning environment of the PC-clusters, to deliver interactive sessions that will act to introduce the students to the data analysis platform.

Eight lectures of material will be used to impart information in a concise manner, to highlight areas of importance and to interrelate with directed reading and self-directed study. These materials will be used to introduce a range of analysis strategies. We will use five PC-Cluster based workshops to introduce R to the students prior to the practical sessions.

The three practical sessions will provide the students with structured PC-Cluster based sessions in which they can explore and develop their understanding of R and in a structured environment, analyse the data set provided for the assessment and to gain valuable direct learning to explore the module content.

Private study will be used for self-directed learning, including further reading.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Summative Assessment: In the summative assessment the students will be presented with a large dataset which they have to analyse using the tools, ideas and approaches covered in the module. The assessment will explore their understanding of the material taught, as well as push their critical thinking and data-analysis skills. Their results will be presented as 1,500 word report, which will have to contain appropriate diagrams, tables and figures.