ACA300 - Computer Applications and Bioinformatics

Subject Title
Computer Applications and Bioinformatics

Subject Description
Students develop an introductory understanding of how existing bioinformatics and biotechnology computer applications and web-based tools can be used to identify solutions to current biological problems. Utilizing previously acquired biological knowledge as a foundation of the problems posed and expanding on this knowledge with literature-based documents delivered online, students explore case studies in bioinformatics. Utilizing computer laboratories to introduce real-world biological problems using existing bioinformatics and biotechnology computer applications and web-based tools, students validate their understanding of course topics by completing these case studies and submitting reports based on their findings and biological interpretations. Data from the case studies is accessed through publicly accessible online databases.

Credit Status
One credit towards the Honours Bachelor of Science – Biotechnology (BBTA) Degree Program.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1.    Compare data from different biological databases to examine their characteristics and usage in bioinformatics and biotechnology.
2.    Explain sequence analysis in the context of biology and biotechnology as it relates to the various branches of bioinformatics.
3.    Apply dynamic programming algorithms to solve sequence similarity problems.
4.    Construct phylogenetic trees that display the evolutionary relationships between biological entities.
5.    Apply gene prediction algorithms to locate and identify potential genes in eukaryotes and prokaryotes.
6.    Predict secondary and tertiary structure to hypothesize the properties and functions of biological sequences, including primers.
7.    Discuss the principles, technologies, and importance of expression analysis and network analysis as it impacts gene expression on an organism.
8.    Associate bioinformatics analyses to biotechnology applications.

Essential Employability Skills

    •  Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    •  Respond to written, spoken, or visual messages in a manner that ensures effective communication.

    •  Execute mathematical operations accurately.

    •  Apply a systematic approach to solve problems.

    •  Use a variety of thinking skills to anticipate and solve problems.

    •  Locate, select, organize, and document information using appropriate technology and information systems.

    •  Analyze, evaluate, and apply relevant information from a variety of sources.

    •  Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.

    •  Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.

    •  Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.