Microbiology for Non-Science Majors Syllabus for 2015-2016
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Course

BIOL-2420-004 Microbiology for Non-Science Majors

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: RDNG 0331-minimum grade of C or a score on a state-approved test indicating college-level reading skills; SCIT 1307 recommended

Course Description

This course covers basic microbiology and immunology and is primarily directed at pre-nursing, pre-allied health and non-science majors. It provides an introduction to historical concepts of the nature of microorganisms, microbial diversity, the importance of microorganisms and acellular agents in the biosphere, and their roles in human and animal diseases. Major topics include bacterial structure as well as growth, physiology, genetics and biochemistry of microorganisms. Emphasis is on medical microbiology, infectious diseases and public health. The lab covers basics of culture and identification of bacteria and microbial ecology.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(4 sem hrs; 3 lec, 3 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Microbiology with Diseases by Body Systems, 4th ed., 2014, Robert W. Bauman, Benjamin Cummings

MasteringMicrobiology website account (access card is part of the bundle.)

Microbiology Laboratory Manual Revised Fifth Edition, 2014, R. Bauman, Jr. Ph.D., N. Dolby Ph.D., S. Schwarzlose, M.S. is required for the laboratory.

Supplies

One box of gloves, preferably in your size, non-latex, is required for lab (Not optional).  A Sharpie is optional, but strongly recommended for laboratory.

Student Performance

By the end of the semester the student will be able to satisfactorily complete all of the listed learning objectives (below) with a minimum of 60 percent competency level based on the completion of the required examinations and other work as required by the instructor.

LEARNING/ PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES (MINIMUM COMPETENCIES):
After studying the material presented in this course, the student will be able to do the following:

1. Describe the major subdivisions of microbiology and describe the types of microorganisms in each division.
2. Compare prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells on the basis of size, organelles, chromosomal characteristics, reproductive characteristics and nutritional types.
3. Describe and define the function and basic chemical composition of various organelles.
4. Describe and give examples of the four types of biomolecules.
5. List the major characteristics of each kingdom of the biological world and viruses.
6. List and describe the various characteristics associated with life.
7. List and describe the major beneficial and destructive activities of the microbial members of each kingdom of the biological world.
8. Describe and compare the various chemical and physical methods used in microbial control.
9. Describe the etiology, pathogenesis, and treatments of major microbial diseases.
10. List and describe the body's lines of defense in resisting and/or combating disease causing microorganisms.
11. Explain what is meant by nosocomial infections and how to prevent nosocomial infections in patients.
12. Explain how to safeguard themselves and others from infectious disease.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

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Grading Criteria

40% Lecture Exams:

• 5 major exams consisting of multiple choice, matching, and/or labeling diagrams and essays.  Each exam will be worth 100 points, with one lecture exam grade drop.
• In addition, if you make less than a 70 on any lecture exam, you will be required to obtain 30 minutes of tutoring from the Science tutor prior to taking the next test.  You will not be allowed to take the next test until after I have verification that you have received this tutoring. If you do not get tutoring and cannot take the test as scheduled, you will receive a grade of zero for that examination.

10% Lecture Quizzes:

• 8-10 lecture quizzes consisting of 10 questions. Online quizzes may also be administered. One lecture quiz grade will be dropped.

12.5 % Lab Tests/Practicals:

• Five (5) lab practicals consisting of 30-50 questions (fill in the blank and short answers), with one practical grade drop. Some labs may be graded for a lab practical grade.

10% Unknown Bacteria Identification:

• This will involve the process of identifying a bacterial sample that will be provided to you during the 11th-12th week of class.

2.5% Student Presentations

• Students will be assigned a topic on an emerging disease and will conduct their own research and do a 10 minute slide show presentation.

Standard Grading will be utilized:

                                                89.5 - 100  = A         59.5-69.4 = D

                                                79.5 - 89.4  = B        Below 59.5 = F

                                                69.5 - 79.4 = C

Grades are not curved. There may be the possibility of an extra credit opportunity.

Attendance

Attendance is very important for success in microbiology. Points will be awarded at the end of the semester for attendance. Students will be expected to sign in for class, as this will be required of them as professionals for continuing education. You may miss two classes without a loss of points.

Calendar

Additional Information

Census date: (last day to drop with the course NOT appearing on the transcript) - February 4th, 2016.

Withdrawal deadline:  April 21, 2016

100% Refund date: January 25, 2016

A grade of W will be given for a student initiated drop or withdrawal on or before April 21, 2016. You may not drop or withdraw after Thursday, April 21st, 2016 without permission of the Biology Department.  You must petition the department, in writing, for review of a late withdrawal.  This request will be reviewed by the entire full time faculty of the Biology Department.