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Biology Teaching and Learning Centre · ANU College of Science and Medicine
Microorganisms play a significant role in medicine, agriculture, the environment, and many facets of our daily lives. This course focuses on the general principles of microbiology, providing students with an understanding of the fundamental concepts of the biology of microorganisms. The course includes the following topics: bacterial cell structure and function; genetic systems of bacteria, bacteriophages and plasmids; microbial growth and metabolism; energy and nutrient harvesting; microorganisms and the environment; control of microorganisms; introduction to viruses; food and industrial microbiology. Practical skills are an essential part of microbiology. The laboratory classes in this course aim: (1) to teach and develop basic microbiological techniques and experimental skills; (2) to illustrate some of the concepts presented in the lectures. Honours Pathway Option (HPO): Students who undertake the HPO will develop strong oral presentation skills and an understanding of techniques that are changing biology and medicine. They will be assessed by a 15 minute oral presentation on a cutting edge microbial genetics technique.
Weekly multiple-choice quizzes
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
Two written reports of laboratory practical class
Learning outcomes 1, 4, 5
Final examination comprising short answer questions
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
Four pre-practical quizzes
Learning outcomes 1, 4, 5
A pre-prac proposal
Learning outcomes 1, 4, 5
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including: - Face-to-face component which may consist of 2 x 1 hour lectures per week (total 24 hours), 1 x 1 hour tutorials per week (total 11 hours) and 3 hours of practical or workshop session each week (total 33 hours). There is no tutorial or practical class in Week 1. - Approximately 70 hours of self-directed study which will include preparation for lectures, presentations and other assessment tasks. Students are expected to actively participate and contribute towards discussions.
Willey, J. Prescott, Harley, and Klein's Microbiology (latest ed.) McGraw-Hill.