module specification

This module focuses on the structure and classification of a selected range of microorganisms and their impact on human society.

None

An introduction to microbiology: historical perspectives. Basic microbiology techniques, including laboratory cultivation, formulation of growth medium, laboratory-based methods of identification, safety aspects.
Growth requirements: physical parameters (temperature, pH, redox potential, water activity, gaseous environment, atmospheric pressure, light), macro- and micro-nutrients, growth factors.
Microbial ecology, diversity of habitats and microbial interactions.
The morphology and reproduction of bacterial, plant and animal viruses, prokaryotic microorganisms (eubacteria and archaebacteria), eukaryotic microorganisms (fungi, algae and protozoa).

Learning Outcomes LO1 - 5

Information pertaining to the subject matter will be presented through an integrated programme of lectures and supporting exercises, together with some use of a problem-based learning approach and the guided use of student-centred learning resources.  Lectures will be used to provide a conceptual framework.  Student centred assignments will enable students to reinforce and expand their knowledge, and develop subject specific skills and competence.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
1. Understand that microorganisms comprise a diverse range of organisms that includes sub-viral particles, viruses, bacteria, fungi, algae, and protoctista and have some understanding of their structural diversity and classification through completion of the quizzes
2. have knowledge of the physiological diversity that is reflected in the broad range
of microbial activity in the environment, in their importance in biotechnology and in health and disease, manipulate and interpret numerical data relating to microbial cell counts and explain the aetiology of selected microbial diseases and make ethical evaluations on medical microbiology laboratory practice in the reflective learning log and written assignment
3. Show an understanding of pathogenicity, virulence mechanisms of major groups of microorganisms and the use of laboratory investigations to corroborate clinical diagnosis and treatment of microbial diseases, display an appreciation of the relevance of epidemiology in the prediction, control and identification of disease and show relevance of epidemiology in the recognition and identification of emerging and re-emerging diseases in the reflective learning log and written assignment
4. Demonstrate in the reflective learning log and written assignment  an appreciation of trends in the development of novel therapeutic and prophylactic measures.
5. Understand the processes relating to compliance with health and safety policies, good laboratory practice, risk and infection control through completion of the reflective learning log and written assignment

The module will be formatively assessed by in-course online quizzes and two coursework components. A reflective learning log (1000 words) and a written assignment (1000 words). Criteria for assessment will include an understanding of the subject matter; an ability, both orally and written, to explain, describe and discuss the work; completeness and conciseness of written reports and essays with emphasis upon critical ability and scientific rigour. To pass the module students need to achieve a minimum aggregate mark of 50%. There are no practical sessions.

Component                  Learning outcomes
Quizzes                                    1
Reflective learning log             2
Written assignment                 3,4,5

Bauman RW. (2009) Microbiology with Diseases by Body System 2nd Ed. Pearson.
Hogg S. (2005) Essential Microbiology. Wiley.
Madigan MT, Martinko JM, Dunlap PV, Clark DP. (2009) Brock Biology of Microorganisms 12th Ed. Pearson.
Wheelis ML. (2008) Principles of Modern Microbiology. Jones and Bartlett.