Create a Multimedia Presentation on the Molecular Mechanisms of Zika Virus Transplacental Infection

Multimedia presentation Rationale: The purpose of this assignment is to give students an opportunity to apply module content and extend their knowledge of reproductive physiology through self-guided research. In this assessment, students will work in pairs to create a multimedia presentation on how the Zika virus is able to breach the maternal-fetal interface and cause birth defects. This assignment will facilitate the development of the skills necessary for students to critically evaluate scientific research and effectively present their knowledge in a logical and concise manner. Return to Top What you need to do: Students will be paired with a peer in Week 3 of the term. Students will then work with their partner to research and investigate the molecular mechanisms of trans-placental infection of the Zika virus and its resulting pathologies. Students will need to use content from Modules 1-4, as well as information they gather through their own investigation of primary scientific literature. Students will need to present their findings and research in a narrated, multimedia presentation (acceptable formats include PowerPoint, Prezi, video, etc.). The presentation must fulfil the following requirements: Give an introduction of the Zika virus, including a description of the virus itself, and an outline of the epidemiology of Zika virus infection. A description of the molecular mechanisms of trans-placental Zika virus infection. A discussion of how Zika virus infection causes fetal abnormalities. A brief overview of one primary research article (NOT a review article) in which researchers investigated one of these mechanisms using an animal model. Students will need to include at least one figure from the article to describe the study’s results. They will also be expected to explain how the findings from the study help us understand the condition in humans. Based on your chosen article and other current literature, propose potential future research directions in the prevention of Zika infection or the development of novel vaccines/therapeutics. Reference at least three sources from credible scientific literature, such as scientific journal articles. More articles may be referenced to support the statements and predictions in the report. Include these references, and any others, in a bibliography at the end of the presentation. Return to Top Specifications: The format of this assessment is as follows: Approximately 13-15 minutes in length. Note: A presentation less than 12 minutes or greater than 16 minutes will receive 0% on the ‘Presentation Skills’ section of the rubric. The presentation must be narrated. Referencing: All references must be in APA format and listed at the end of the presentation. This assessment is worth 20% of the final grade. Return to Top Learning Outcomes: CLO1: Describe key fundamental concepts in male and female reproductive biology to create a framework that can be applied to more complex topics in human reproduction Explain the scientific basis of diseases of pregnancy to determine their implications on health in later life. CLO3: Critically assess scientific literature in human reproductive biology to support arguments in oral and written work. Return to Top Competencies: Communicator: Students will be able to effectively summarize their ideas and research in a presentation format, using terminology learned in the course. Scholar: Students will apply their knowledge of course content and scientific literature to understand the molecular mechanisms of trans-placental Zika infection. Professional: Students will conduct themselves in a manner such that they respect the opinions of their partner and contribute ideas in a timely fashion. Students will produce a multimedia presentation that uses professional language and tone. Collaborator: Students will work in pairs to discuss ideas, divide responsibilities, and create a cohesive presentation that showcases their understanding of the chosen topic.