Course Catalogue

Generative AI in Scientific Communications BIOL5439

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: MVLS College Services
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

The world is becoming augmented by artificial intelligence (AI). Generative AI (GenAI) is now a part of our everyday lives. When prompted, large language models and AI image generators can rapidly generate specific text, image, or video responses. This course will introduce students to the use of LLMs and AI image generators in scientific communications and provide frameworks about how to use these technologies appropriately, responsibly and ethically.

Timetable

This course will consist of lectures and workshops delivered over 5 weeks in semester 1.

Requirements of Entry

None

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

1. Group Crisis Response Simulation (1000 words) - ILOs 1 & 2 (25%)

 

2. Individual Production of Information Pack Using GenAI (1500 words) - ILOs 1-4 (60%)

 

3. Individual Reflective Analysis of AI usage (500 words) - ILO 4 (15%)

Course Aims

This course aims to provide students with skills and knowledge to effectively use GenAI for generating scientific information and imagery. Students will learn how to effectively engineer prompts to generate responses and images and consider the scientific integrity and reliability of responses.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

1. Critically evaluate the use of effective prompt engineering for generating scientific responses and images by LLMs and AI image generators, respectively, for intended audiences.

2. Critically appraise the scientific integrity and reliability of responses generated by LLMs and how this relates to published, peer reviewed scientific literature.

3. Critically assess the presence of bias in GenAI platforms and why these biases occur.

4. Critically evaluate the regulations and ethical considerations surrounding the use of GenAI technology in scientific research and communication

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions