Glossary of Terms

Year 1 (30 Credits)

RequiredDFS1129: Mathematics (Science Engineering)

DFS1129: Mathematics (Science Engineering)

Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 5

This module will facilitate students to follow an academic taster in Mathematics. The module is designed to develop an appreciation of and insight into specialist knowledge within this area and will enhance their critical thinking and problem solving abilities. Throughout the module students will be supported in developing the ability to write and complete exam papers to a standard which prepares them for the first year of an undergraduate degree programme. Students will improve their analytical and interpretive skills and will be able to discuss and debate on various topics covered in Mathematics.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes

1. On successful completion of the first part of this module ('Mathematics I'), the student will be able to: Carry out arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division with natural, rational and real numbers
2. • Carry out the above operations with symbols used to represent numbers of the above forms
3. • Convert fractions to percentages or decimals as well as calculate percentage increase/decrease
4. • Use mathematical rules and symbols to solve numerical problems , using a scientific calculator where appropriate
5. • Carry out arithmetic operations with algebraic expressions
6. • Solve/simplify algebraic expressions/equations using techniques such as factoring and removal of brackets
7. • Represent data using frequency distributions and histograms
8. On successful completion of the second part of this module (‘Mathematics II’), the student will be able to: • Recognise linear, quadratic and cubic functions and draw their graphs
9. • Compute the derivative of a function using basic rules of differentiation as well as product, quotient and chain rules
10. • Use the derivative of a function to locate maxima and minima
11. • Solve systems of linear equations using elimination of variables and represent solutions graphically
12. • Compute limits using the properties of limits
13. On completion of Mathematics II, Science/Engineering students should additionally be able to: • Use the derivative of a function to determine the tangent of its graph at a given point
14. • Solve a system of three linear equations in three unknowns
15. • Recognise trigonometric functions and their graphs and use trigonometry to solve problems involving triangles and Pythagoras’ theorem

Assessments

• Department-based Assessment (100%)

Teachers & Administrators

Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.

•  GRÁINNE MORAHAN 🖂
  
•  IMELDA BYRNE 🖂
  
•  KATHLEEN HARTIGAN 🖂
  
•  MARY SURLIS 🖂
  
•  HELENA MORAN 🖂
  
•  TRISH BOURKE 🖂
  
•  SINEAD HIGGINS 🖂
  
•  KIRSTEN PFEIFFER 🖂
  
•  DANIEL WILLIAM SAVERY 🖂
  
•  Neil Humphries 🖂
  
•  OLGA O MAHONY 🖂
  

Reading List

1. "Foundation Maths" by Croft, Anthony and Robert Davison
   Publisher: Harlow: Pearson Education/Prentice Hall
2. "College Mathematics for Business, Economics, Life Science and Social Sciences" by Barnett, Ziegler and Byleen Pearson Education/Prentice (older editions of this book are fine).
   Publisher: Pearson Education/Prentice (older editions of this book are fine).
3. "Basic Engineering Mathematics" by Bird, John.
   Publisher: Oxford: Elsevier.

RequiredDFS1113: Chemistry

DFS1113: Chemistry

Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 5

This module will facilitate students to follow an academic taster in Chemistry. The module is designed to develop an appreciation of and insight into specialist knowledge within this area and will enhance their critical thinking and problem solving abilities. Throughout the module students will be supported in developing the ability to write and complete exam papers to a standard which prepares them for the first year of an undergraduate degree programme. Students will improve their analytical and interpretive skills and will be able to discuss and debate on various topics covered in Chemistry.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes

1. On the successful completion of this module, the student will be able to: • Outline the scope of the science of chemistry
2. • Describe the concept, structure, and electronic configuration of an atom
3. • Read, interpret, and describe the electronic basis of the Periodic Table
4. • Describe how covalent and ionic bonding arises in molecules
5. • Use the electronegativity concept to predict the type of bonding present in a particular molecule
6. • Use the concept of valency to write the formula of simple molecules.
7. • Balance simple chemical reaction equations
8. • Explain the concept of a mole
9. • Use the mole concept in doing simple chemical arithmetic
10. • Define pH, acids, bases and salts
11. • Calculate the pH of solutions
12. • Perform basic chemical experiments in a laboratory setting

Assessments

• Department-based Assessment (100%)

Teachers & Administrators

Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.

•  GRÁINNE MORAHAN 🖂
  
•  IMELDA BYRNE 🖂
  
•  KATHLEEN HARTIGAN 🖂
  
•  MARY SURLIS 🖂
  
•  HELENA MORAN 🖂
  
•  TRISH BOURKE 🖂
  
•  SINEAD HIGGINS 🖂
  
•  MICHELLE MCGARRAGHTY 🖂
  
•  CATHY BROUGHAM 🖂
  
•  DANIEL WILLIAM SAVERY 🖂
  

Reading List

1. "Chemistry & Chemical Reactivity" by Kotz J.C., P.M. Treichel and J.R. Towsend
   Publisher: Brooks/Cole/ Cengage
2. "Chemistry Live" by Kennedy, Declan, Pat Walsh
   Publisher: Folens Publishers
3. "Chemistry: human activity, chemical reactivity" by Unknown
   Publisher: It is recommended first year textbook and is available from the James Hardiman Library

RequiredDFS1111: Biology

DFS1111: Biology

Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 5

This module will facilitate students to follow an academic taster in Biology. The module is designed to develop an appreciation of and insight into specialist knowledge within this area and will enhance their critical thinking and problem solving abilities. Throughout the module students will be supported in developing the ability to write and complete exam papers to a standard which prepares them for the first year of an undergraduate degree programme. Students will improve their analytical and interpretive skills and will be able to discuss and debate on various topics covered in Biology.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes

1. On the successful completion of this module, the student will be able to: • Apply the scientific method of investigation and utilise relevant *laboratory skills, where relevant to course.
2. • Describe the digestive and excretory systems
3. • Explain the workings of the cardiovascular system
4. • Analyse the structure and functions of the respiratory system
5. • Identify and explain the components and functions of the urinary system
6. • Explain the make-up of the nervous and endocrine system
7. • Describe the reproductive system
8. • Describe the structure and components of cells and the processes of cell death and cancer
9. • Illustrate biological concepts using diagrams *Where relevant to course

Assessments

• Department-based Assessment (100%)

Teachers & Administrators

Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.

•  GRÁINNE MORAHAN 🖂
  
•  IMELDA BYRNE 🖂
  
•  KATHLEEN HARTIGAN 🖂
  
•  MARY SURLIS 🖂
  
•  HELENA MORAN 🖂
  
•  TRISH BOURKE 🖂
  
•  SINEAD HIGGINS 🖂
  
•  PAUL ANGLIM 🖂
  
•  CATHY BROUGHAM 🖂
  
•  DANIEL WILLIAM SAVERY 🖂
  
•  DAVID MONAHAN 🖂
  

Reading List

1. "Leaving Cert Biology" by O’Callaghan, Michael
   Publisher: EDCO
2. "Campbell Biology" by Reece, Jane B., Urry, Lisa A., Cain, Michael L, Wasserman, Stephen A., Minorsky, Peter V. and Robert B. Jackson
   Publisher: Pearson Education/Benjamin Cummings.
3. "Campbell Essential Biology with Mastering Biology" by Simon, Eric J., Reece, Jane B. and Jean L. Dickey.
   Publisher: Upper Saddle River: Pearson Education/Benjamin Cummings

RequiredDFS1112: Physics

DFS1112: Physics

Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 5

This module will facilitate students to follow an academic taster in Physics. The module is designed to develop an appreciation of and insight into specialist knowledge within this area and will enhance their critical thinking and problem solving abilities. Throughout the module students will be supported in developing the ability to write and complete exam papers to a standard which prepares them for the first year of an undergraduate degree programme. Students will improve their analytical and interpretive skills and will be able to discuss and debate on various topics covered in Physics.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes

1. On the successful completion of this module, the student will be able to: • Understand the relevance and applications of physics in contemporary society.
2. • Describe the fundamental physical laws and principles that govern optics, mechanics and materials, and the mathematics describing those laws.
3. • Use appropriate mathematical techniques to solve problems relating to physics.
4. Use relevant physics-laboratory skills and techniques to measure and record physical data in compliance with standard practice.

Assessments

• Department-based Assessment (100%)

Teachers & Administrators

Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.

•  GRÁINNE MORAHAN 🖂
  
•  IMELDA BYRNE 🖂
  
•  KATHLEEN HARTIGAN 🖂
  
•  MARY SURLIS 🖂
  
•  HELENA MORAN 🖂
  
•  TRISH BOURKE 🖂
  
•  SINEAD HIGGINS 🖂
  
•  MICHELLE MCGARRAGHTY 🖂
  
•  SEAN O GORMAN 🖂
  
•  DANIEL WILLIAM SAVERY 🖂
  
•  Louise Mary Cannon 🖂
  
•  EOIN O'CONNOR 🖂
  

Reading List

1. "Advanced Physics For You" by Johnson, Keith, Hewett, Simmone, Holt, Sue and John Miller.
   Publisher: Nelson Thornes
2. "Introduction to Physics" by Cutnell, John D. and Kenneth W. Johnson. New York: John Wiley and Sons.
   Publisher: John Wiley and Sons
3. "Contemporary College Physics" by Jones, Edwin R. and Richard L. Childers
   Publisher: McGraw-Hill
4. "Physics Volume 1" by Resnick, Robert, Halliday, David and Kenneth S. Krane
   Publisher: John Wiley and Sons

RequiredDFS1128: Academic Communications Skills and Engage: Skills for College and Career

DFS1128: Academic Communications Skills and Engage: Skills for College and Career

Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 10

This module is designed to meet the needs of individuals undertaking a foundation course. It is an integral part of an educational process as it involves helping the individuals to understand their starting points, to identify their next goals and to enable participants to move from one to the other. It enables the individual to acquire the necessary skills to benefit from, and participate in third level courses, build up students’ confidence in their personal and academic abilities and assist the students to identify and choose the University course that best suit their aptitudes. Participants also learn techniques and strategies that help them make better use of time and improve their learning capabilities and are encouraged to move forwards towards self evaluation and self correction. This module will provide students with an opportunity to practice writing in the different styles necessary for academic situations in University. During the course essays will be submitted which will give students the chance to improve their abilities and provide them with an alternative approach to writing. Advanced level Microsoft powerpoint, Microsoft word and internet explorer will also be covered as part of the IT component while students will gain an understanding of communication skills both verbal and body language through the communications element of the module.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes

1. ACADEMIC TECHNOLOGY - Use the NUIG Information system and tools
2. Organise and manage files (locally and cloud)
3. Utilise referencing software for citation purposes
4. Create and edit, documents, slides and worksheets for academic purposes
5. Use Social Media for collaborative academic group work
6. ACADEMIC WRITING - Demonstrate proficiency in the basics of grammatical construction, including sentence type and structure, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary
7. Identify and explain the component elements of a paragraph
8. Plan and execute a well structured piece of academic writing
9. Develop and sustain a written argument/critical analysis
10. Draft and redraft written work until the final result is satisfactory
11. Follow academic conventions with regard to the presentation, tone and technical requirements of written work
12. Explain the meaning of plagiarism and avoid plagiarism by using appropriate in-text citations and preparing a bibliography
13. ENGAGE - Navigate the University campus and identify and know how to access student services, including the library
14. Meet and engage with academic staff, and demonstrate that they have attended undergraduate lectures during the academic year
15. Demonstrate increased self-awareness and understand the implications of personality, skills, values, motivators and interests in careers decision-making.
16. Reflect on their career path to date and draw up a career action plan for the future.
17. Research careers, labour market information and higher education programmes.
18. Apply for third-level programmes of interest at NUI Galway and other institutions
19. Plan the financing of their third-level studies.
20. ACADEMIC STUDY SKILLS - Recognise their own learning style and evaluate personal strengths, weaknesses and skills (exam preparation and procrastination)
21. Establish and adhere to a plan of work that balances academic and personal commitments
22. Show that they have developed efficient listening, reading and note-taking skills
23. Demonstrate good communications skills, including the ability to deliver an individual and team presentation
24. Use revision and exam preparation techniques to minimise stress and maximise performance in exam situations

Assessments

• Department-based Assessment (100%)

Teachers & Administrators

Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.

•  GRÁINNE MORAHAN 🖂
  
•  JOSEPHINE WALSH 🖂
  
•  IMELDA BYRNE 🖂
  
•  VINCENT O'CONNELL 🖂
  
•  FIONA SHERIDAN 🖂
  
•  CLAIRE COMMINS 🖂
  
•  NIAMH DOHENY 🖂
  
•  KATHLEEN HARTIGAN 🖂
  
•  MARY SURLIS 🖂
  
•  HELENA MORAN 🖂
  
•  TRISH BOURKE 🖂
  
•  SINEAD HIGGINS 🖂
  
•  PAT MOFFAT 🖂
  
•  JAMES WADE 🖂
  
•  GABRIEL BOURKE 🖂
  
•  DANIEL WILLIAM SAVERY 🖂
  
•  ANDREA LYNCH 🖂
  
•  OLGA O MAHONY 🖂
  

Reading List

1. "Buzan’s study skills: mind maps,memory techniques,speed reading and more!" by Buzan, Tony
   Publisher: Harlowe:BBC Archive/Pearson
2. "The Study Skills handbook" by Cottrell, Stella
   Publisher: BasingStoke:Palgrave
3. "Skills for success:personal development and employability" by Cottrell, Stella
   Publisher: Houndmills:PalgraveMacMillan
4. "Write great essays! A guide to reading and essay writing for undergraduates and taught postgraduates" by Levin, Peter
   Publisher: Maidenhead:Open University Press
5. "Guide to citing and referencing." by Mulligan, Jane and Siobhan Carroll (eds)
   Publisher: Galway:James Hardiman Library.
6. "Developing work and study skills" by Lee-Davies, Linda
   Publisher: Andover: Cengage
7. "Reading at university: a guide for students" by Fairbairn, Gavin and Susan Fairbairn
   Publisher: Buckingham: Open University Press
8. "CAO Handbook 2013" by CAO
9. "The good study guide" by Northedge, Andrew
   Publisher: Milton Keynes: The Open University
10. "Guide to citing and referencing" by Mulligan, Jane and Siobhán Carroll (Eds)