Information and Communication Technologies

obligatory courses

The course provides an introduction to fundamental and advanced aspects of information technologies and scientific methodology relevant to the biological sciences. Throughout the lectures, students become familiar with the philosophy and methodology of biological research, including the processes of planning and conducting scientific studies. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding scientific reliability, the peer-review system, and publication metrics such as the impact factor.

A major component of the course is the development of skills related to the correct processing, analysis, and presentation of scientific data. Students are introduced to principles of effective data visualization and to commonly used software tools such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Corel, and ArcGIS. The course also covers the basics of statistical analysis and the concept of measurement error in scientific inquiry.

Additionally, students learn how to search for and critically evaluate scientific literature using major online databases (e.g., PubMed). The course introduces the principles of retrieving, comparing, and interpreting gene and protein sequences, along with visualization techniques for three-dimensional protein structures using specialized software.

Upon completion of the course, students will have acquired knowledge and skills necessary for the effective handling, interpretation, and communication of scientific data. They will understand the importance of lifelong learning, critical assessment of scientific information, and continuous improvement of professional competencies. The competencies gained enable students to formulate conclusions, prepare written assignments, and deliver scientific presentations based on reliable sources and sound analytical methods.

Classroom

A discussion of the fundamental principles of information technologies aimed at equalizing students’ competencies in the use of computers in biological sciences. The course presents the possibilities of using online databases, methods for searching scientific literature, as well as techniques for the proper analysis and presentation of scientific data.

Lectures on the following topics:

1. Issues concerning the philosophy of biological sciences, the process of planning and conducting scientific research

2. Credibility of publications and scientific data (peer review, impact factor and others)

3. Effective ways to visualize scientific data

4. How to correctly present scientific data

5. How to correctly present scientific data, part 2

6. Writing scientific articles, and diploma theses

7. Simple statistical programs, analysis of results (linear regression, theory of error in science)

8. Searching for scientific literature in available online databases (pubmed.gov etc.)

9. The concept of gene sequence, searching and comparison of genetic and protein sequences.

10. Sequence and 3D structure of proteins, visualization programs

1. Successful Scientific Writing: A Step-by-Step Guide for the Biological and Medical Sciences

A comprehensive guide covering the entire writing process: planning, literature searching, creating tables and figures, reporting numerical data, stylistic editing, ethics, and oral presentations.

Cambridge University Press

🔗 https://www.cambridge.org/highereducation/books/successful-scientific-writing/3C6D76EA547390C27FCB323FB287BC90

2. How to Write and Illustrate a Scientific Paper (2nd ed.)

Strong focus on graphical and illustrative aspects of scientific papers: creating charts, tables, illustrations, and effective document layout – especially useful for teaching scientific data presentation.

Cambridge University Press

🔗 https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/how-to-write-and-illustrate-a-scientific-paper/2703C27BA4D7E6244E6B3DDE4EC2FF86

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge

K_W01 (biology) / K_W08 (biotechnology) / K_W01 (environmental protection)

Upon completion of the course, the student:

Knows the methods of presenting scientific results used in the natural sciences with commonly applied software (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Corel, ArcGIS) and is able to select the appropriate program for a given task.

Understands the basic principles of statistical analysis used in biological research.

Possesses knowledge of scientific information sources, including databases and genetic information repositories.

Understands the concept of gene and protein sequences and can identify similarities between them.

Skills

K_U02 (biotechnology)

The student:

Can retrieve information from scientific literature, databases, and other appropriately selected sources related to information technologies and their applications in the biological sciences.

Is able to integrate and interpret collected data, draw conclusions, and formulate and justify opinions.

K_U07 (biology/environmental protection)

The student:

Is able to present research results in the form of a written report or a multimedia presentation.

Communicates effectively using various techniques in a professional environment.

Has the ability to search for scientific literature using relevant databases.

Understands the concept of protein structure and can apply this knowledge in the interpretation of biological data.

Social Competences

K_K02 (environmental protection)

The student:

Understands the necessity of continuous competence development and the importance of seeking new technologies to solve research problems; is able to engage in lifelong self-directed learning.

K_K06 (biotechnology)

Can communicate information, including research results, in a clear and comprehensible manner.

K_K08 (biology)

Critically evaluates information found in mass media and in professional literature.

Additionally, the student:

Understands the need for lifelong learning (H1A_K01).

Participates in cultural life, using various media and forms of cultural expression (H1A_K06).

– Attendance and active participation in the lectures (mandatory). Up to two unexcused absences are permitted.

Assessment method: Based on the attendance record and the final examination.