University of Nottingham Malaysia
Foundation Studies
     
  

Module descriptions

Want to know more about the modules that form the Foundation in Science?  Below we have included a short description of each module, organised by semester:

Semester 0 

 

Fundamentals of Computing

This module provides an understanding of the basic computer concepts, diversity of peripheral devices available for computer


 

Fundamentals of Algebra

The aims of the module are to provide students with knowledge on algebra’s rules and indices as well as quadratics and polynomials.

 

Introduction to Atoms and Bonding

This module provides an introduction to atomic structure as well as atoms, moles and equations. It also offers a basic understanding of chemical bonding and structure, a basic understanding of the periodic table and an introduction to states of matter.

 

Cells and Molecules

This module provides the basic information of biochemical molecules of life, cellular components and function, movements across membranes and reproduction. It also introduces the relationships and between molecules and cell.

 

Laboratory Practice in Science

This module provides the basic information of safety when working in the laboratory, introduction to good laboratory practice and some applied methodologies used in the biological laboratory. It also introduces a platform for students to work in groups to produce projects with topics related to biological sciences.

 

English Language Study Skills
This module provides an introduction to study skills and to academic reading, writing and listening in addition to enhancing English language competency. These introductory subjects prepare students for full participation in their foundation year studies

 

Semester 1

Study Skills for Science 

The aims of the module are to provide students with knowledge on good presentation skills, both individual and as a group, as well as effective use of IT packages for delivering presentations. Information retrieval and time management skills will also be developed through this module.

 

Calculus

This module provides students with an introduction to set theories as well as a basic understanding of graphs and its transformations.

 

Ecology, Energy and Environment

This module provides the basic information on ecology and how the various species of organisms live together in one environment. It also looks at how energy is managed in both mammals and plants. This includes the topics of energy conservation and nutrient recycling as well as the effect of development to the environment.

 

Physical Chemistry

This module provides students with an introduction to chemical energetics, a basic understanding of redox reactions, an introduction to dynamic equilibria, acids, bases and buffers, as well as a basic understanding of reaction kinetics.

 

Internet and the World Wide Web

This module aims to introduce skills and knowledge on the Internet and World Wide Web and teach students to develop a web site by using HTML and CSS/scripting language.

 

Fundamentals of Programming

This module provides the basic programming concepts, principles and practice of C programming language.

 

Introduction to Psychology 1
This module considers psychological theories, concepts and applications. It also covers the following core areas of psychology: social psychology, developmental psychology, and psychological methods and statistics.

 

 

Foundations of Management

This module provides students with the opportunity to develop critical understanding of organisations by considering the basic principles of management and the range and nature of activities associated with management of organisations in a dynamic external environment.

 

Semester 2

 

Elementary Statistics and Probability

This module considers set theory, elementary probability and an introduction to statistics.  It also offers an introduction to complex numbers and a basic understanding of vectors and matrices.

 

Genetics and Living Systems  

This module provides the classic principles of transmission genetics, and conceptual approach of molecular genetics.  This module also covers population genetics in nature, variation and simple genetic engineering techniques.  This module addresses the basics of regulation, coordination and defence, which includes the topics of homeostasis; temperature, water and ion regulations; response and coordination; infectious disease and immunity. 

 

Organic Chemistry  

This module provides students with an introduction to chemical functional groups, a basic understanding of different types of organic reaction as well as an introduction to spectroscopy of organic molecules. 

 

Professional Pharmacy  

This module introduces students to some of the basic areas of symptom and medicines management.  This is achieved through a combination of face-to-face teaching, directed study, community pharmacy placements and project work. 

 

Scientific Computing

This module aims to develop skills and basic understanding .

 

 

Elementary Linear Algebra  

This module aimed at majors in mathematics, the physical sciences and other students interested in applications of mathematics to their disciplines.

 

Communications and Networks  

This module provides the basic concepts of communication technology including: introduction to electronic mass media, computers and consumer electronics and networking technologies. 

 

Introduction to Psychology 2  

This module considers psychological theories, concepts and applications.  It also covers the following core areas of psychology: physiological psychology, cognitive psychology and abnormal psychology. 

 

Business Functions  

This module considers business functions such as human resource, marketing and operations whilst providing students with the opportunity to develop critical understanding of organisations by considering the basic principles of various business functions.

 

 

Introduction to Critical Thought

Introduction to Critical Thought is a module that introduces students to the mental processes underpinning analytical thought and aims to develop a knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles and components of analytical thought across various academic disciplines and the ability to apply them. In particular it focuses on the abilities to problem solve and to present, evaluate, support and defend an academic argument or viewpoint. Students will study the concepts of logic, reason, belief and truth; develop an awareness of thought and problem solving; learn the techniques of persuasion; and investigate academic argumentation across disciplines.

University of Nottingham Malaysia

Jalan Broga, 43500 Semenyih
Selangor Darul Ehsan
Malaysia

telephone: +6 (03) 8924 8000
fax: +6 (03) 8924 8001
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