Module Details

Module Code: BIOL8028
Title: Animal Reproduction
Long Title: Animal Reproduction
NFQ Level: Advanced
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2020/21 ( September 2020 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 4211 - Biochemistry & Cell Biology
Module Delivered in: 1 programme(s)
Module Description: This module will provide the student with a detailed overview of animal reproductive systems and breeding. It will also cover a case-based approach to synchronicity, biosecurity and biotechnological advancements for improvements in fertility status.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Explain the physiology of reproduction, parturition and lactation in selected domestic animals
LO2 Examine the biochemical mechanisms involved in reproductive hormone cycling in selected domestic animals
LO3 Assess the main causes of fertility issues in selected domestic animals and subsequent strategies for breeding improvement
LO4 Evaluate the application of modern biotechnological advancements as tools to improve fertility status in animals
Dependencies
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 MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Male Reproductive Physiology
Anatomy and structure of the male reproductive system in selected domestic animals. Hormonal control of spermatogenesis. Analysis and interpretation of sperm function and fertility.
Female Reproductive Physiology
Anatomy and structure of the female reproductive system in selected domestic animals. Hormonal control of the oestrus cycle. Fertilisation, gestation, parturition and lactation.
Breeding Strategies
Natural breeding vs AI. Resumption of cyclicity. Synchronisation of females and oestrus detection methods.
Fertility and Biotechnology
IVF. MOET. Pregnancy diagnosis methods. Cryopreservation. Molecular biomarker identification. Flow cytometry applications. In-vitro and in-vivo nutrient supplementation. Use of genetic markers to predict fertility.
Animal Infertility
Common diseases and disorders of the male and female reproductive systems. Impact of animal health on fertility. Immunological responses in the reproductive tract. Pharmacotoxicology and reproduction.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Multiple Choice Questions % of Total Mark 40
Timing Week 8 Learning Outcomes 1,2
Assessment Description
Case study assessment on male and female reproductive physiology and hormone cycling in selected domestic animals
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 60
Timing Week 13 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Assessment Description
Written project, using relevant peer-reviewed literature, to examine the role of a biotechnological tool in diagnosing/treating an animal fertility issue and/or improving productivity
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
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.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Theory, concepts and case studies Every Week 3.00 3
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Self-directed learning/case study workbooks Every Week 4.00 4
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Theory, concepts and case studies Every Week 3.00 3
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Self-directed learning/case study workbooks Every Week 4.00 4
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Senger, PL.. (2012), Pathways to Pregnancy & Parturition, 3rd. Current Conceptions Inc., [ISBN: 9780965764834].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Hafez, B. and Hafez, ESE.. (2013), Reproduction in Farm Animals, 7th. WIley, [ISBN: 9781118710289].
Supplementary Article/Paper Resources
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_SAGBI_8 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Agri-Biosciences 8 Mandatory