BIOL213-20S2 (C) Semester Two 2020

Microbiology

15 points

Details:
Start Date: Monday, 13 July 2020
End Date: Sunday, 8 November 2020
Withdrawal Dates
Last Day to withdraw from this course:
  • Without financial penalty (full fee refund): Friday, 24 July 2020
  • Without academic penalty (including no fee refund): Friday, 25 September 2020

Description

An introduction to the fundamental principles of microbiology and microbial genetics.

This course (Mātai koiora moroiti | Microbiology) provides a broad overview on microbial physiology, microbial activity and the roles microorganisms play from the molecular to the global scale. It is intended for students with a broad interest in microbiology, mycology, biodiversity, and microbial ecology. You will learn about microbial genetics, metabolism and physiology, diversity, host-microbe and microbe-ecosystem interactions.
The laboratory component of this course emphasises practical microbiology skills such as microscopy, aseptic technique, experimental design and planning, and methods for controlling microbial growth. The course also includes a field trip as part of the laboratory.
The course interfaces with BIOL231/BCHM202 and is an essential preparation for BIOL313.

Learning Outcomes

  • At the end of the course, students will:
  • Have a broad understanding and knowledge of microbiology in society and in ecosystems, and why microbiology is important at all scales (assessment tasks: all assessments)
  • Understand the linkages between microorganisms, ecosystems and mātauranga Māori (traditional knowledge) (Graduate profile: Bicultural confidence and competence; assessment task: final exam
  • Master methods for studying microorganisms safely (assessment task: laboratory worksheets).
  • Understand and interpret experimental evidence, and how to develop a hypothesis (assessment task: Final exam, laboratory worksheets).
  • Understand key methods of handling, observing and using microorganisms in the laboratory (assessment tasks: final exam, laboratory worksheets)
  • Be competent in experimental design and the use of mathematics and chemistry in microbiology (assessment tasks: prerequisite test, laboratory  worksheets)

    Transferable Skills

    The following skills are developed in this course:
  • Core microbiology wet-laboratory skills (Important for careers that include laboratory work):
    o Aseptic techniques
    o Experimental design
    o Experimental data analysis.
  • Working safely in a molecular lab and complying with PC2 containment regulations (Important for careers that include laboratory work).
  • Independent and self-motivated learning (a life-skill that is important in any career).
  • Finding, understanding, and using information in literature and on the internet. These are very general skills that are essential in many careers.
  • Written and oral communication. Many employers require employees to have good communication skills.

Prerequisites

Recommended Preparation

Timetable Note

It is compulsory to wear safety glasses and a lab coat during labs.

To purchase approved safety glasses, lab or coats go to https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/science/shop/.
The collection point for purchases is inside the southern entry to the Ernest Rutherford Building, Monday to Friday between the hours 8.30 – 10.00 am and 1.30 – 3.00 pm for the first two weeks of the semester.

Course Coordinator / Lecturer

Matthew Stott

Lecturers

Ian Dickie and Mitja Remus-Emsermann

Lab Coordinator

Craig Galilee

Assessment

Assessment Due Date Percentage 
Mid Semester Test 20%
Academic skills test 5%
Final Exam 40%
Post-laboratory worksheets 15%
Pre-laboratory worksheets 20%

Textbooks / Resources

Recommended Reading

Madigan, Michael T. et al; Brock biology of microorganisms ; Fifteenth edition; Pearson, 2018.

Course links

Course Outline

Indicative Fees

Domestic fee $900.00

International fee $4,250.00

* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.

For further information see School of Biological Sciences .

All BIOL213 Occurrences

  • BIOL213-20S2 (C) Semester Two 2020