PDA Modern Biological Technologies SCQF level 7

Professional Development Awards (PDAs) extend or broaden professional or vocational skills and are linked to National Occupational Standards. The PDA in Modern Biological Technologies at SCQF level 7 covers the skills required to work competently in a laboratory environment. It develops technical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.

This qualification has three mandatory Biology units.

This qualification is available through colleges, schools, training providers and some employers. It has been designed to be delivered as a taught course and will normally be available as a combination of workshops and self-directed study.

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The PDA in Modern Biological Technologies at SCQF level 7 has been developed in partnership with employers and industry so it is suitable for the current sector.

It will help employers meet skills gaps and provide continuing professional development for staff, while learners will gain knowledge and skills needed for progression in the workplace.

It can also be offered to people who are in training and wish to gain employment within the sector.

The unit-based structure aids timetable flexibility. Units are typically 40 hours of learning and they can be delivered on a full-time or part-time basis.

This PDA provides progression routes to further study (see Progression). 

The target audience is those in work, or seeking employment, who require a specific skill set.

Access

Entry is at the discretion of the centre.

Learners do not need to have formal relevant qualifications to enter this PDA. Good communication skills, both oral and written, are required. Learners would benefit from the understanding gained from a Science Higher or three National 5 passes, preferably including a Biology subject.

The Units in the PDA have been mapped against the National Occupational Standards for the SVQ in Laboratory Skills (Life Science) (GP4P 23).

Learners would have the opportunity of progressing to other PDAs, which could lead to a full HN qualification, such as HNC/D Applied Sciences, HND Applied Biological Sciences or HND Applied Chemical Sciences.

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority require to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance.

Centers interested in offering this qualification require to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide. The specific delivery requirements are set out in the group award specification (arrangements document).

Each individual unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment for each unit.

Ongoing course assessment will apply.

Each unit is assessed separately.

Assessment will allow candidates to enhance their own practice. The use of reports and projects is crucial to this.

Assessment/e-assessment support packs are available for this qualification.

Group Award code: GR87 47 (32 SCQF credit points)

The PDA in Modern Biological Technologies at SCQF level 7 consists of three mandatory units.