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Biosci 221 - Introduction to Microbiology - Dr. Erica Seubert

Course:Introduction to Microbiology
Professor:Dr. Erica Seubert
Email:erica.seubert@canyons.edu
Format:
  • Hybrid
Course Length:
  • 8 Week

Introduction

In order to succeed when pursuing a career in any field, you will need to obtain various skills (i.e. - time management, effective communication, reading comprehension, project planning), in addition to learning content. This course is designed to assist you in developing the learning skills that will help you tackle not only the content of this class, but future classes as well.  We will be developing these skills by diversifying the manner in which you learn.  Often you will be tasked with solving problems using a critical thinking approach.  This may seem like a difficult task, but critically thinking about a topic is where the fun is!  There will be a great deal of support and guidance provided to you in order to accomplish these goals, do not be afraid!

Course Description

Pre-requisite:  Biosci 100 or 107 (or equivalent), with a minimum grade of “C”.  College chemistry recommended (Chem 151, or equivalent)

An introduction to the biology and ubiquity of microorganisms (for example, bacteria, viruses, protozoa, fungi), including morphology, anatomy, physiology, classification, and identification.  The significance and role of microorganisms in human affairs will also be explored.

Student Learning Outcomes Lecture - Compare and contrast the major groups of microorganisms with regard to morphology, anatomy, physiology, evolution, identification, disease and control, and explain the ubiquity of microbes and their importance in human disease.

Student Learning Outcomes Laboratory - Demonstrate mastery of aseptic techniques, microbiological procedures, and laboratory safety and interpret results and data of exercises in microbial physiology and identification.

What to Expect in this Course

Microbiology is a fast paced course and there is a lot of content to cover in a short period of time.  Our lecture content will be done through asynchronous (done on your own time) activities on Canvas.  You should anticipate spending a minimum of 6 hours a week on the computer completing the asynchronous lecture material IN ADDITION to the time spent preparing for and spent in the laboratory.  This is the time to learn the material initially, and does not take into account the time necessary to review and truly understand the material for an exam.  The basic rule of thumb is to estimate 2 hours of study time per credit hour each week in a full length (16 week) semester.  Microbiology is a 5 credit course, therefore a minimum of 20 hours per week should be set aside for reviewing and studying the material in an 8 week semester.  In summary that is 6 hours for the asynchronous learning activities on Canvas, 12 hours for in person laboratory activities, and 20 hours for studying, for a total of 38 hours per week MINIMUM. A summer science class is a full-time job!  Plan ahead!

Types of Assessments

A variety of assessment methods will be used throughout the course including, but not limited to, in person exams, online quizzes, online discussion boards, written assignments, and formal lab reports.

Textbook Information

Required readings will be from the OpenStax OER Microbiology textbook, which can be accessed for free online or a print copy purchased, if a physical copy is preferred. We will be using the OER Microbiology Lab Manual developed by faculty at COC, which will be available for purchase from the bookstore or can be downloaded from our Canvas course shell.

Other Relevant Course Information

Most students only want to be told what to memorize for a test, but this strategy will hurt you in the long run.  Memorization is only useful for short-term recall, and will not benefit you as course concepts are applied in laboratory assignments.  The goal is for you to become an independent learner!  I encourage you to work through the difficulties you may encounter this semester and remember that I am here to help, but you have to ask! Please do not disappear or drop without talking to me about your issues first.  If you put in the effort, there are lots of opportunities to succeed in this class so I anticipate that everyone will have no problem passing.  The key to success this semester is coming to class prepared, and ready to participate. 

There will be many opportunities to earn points this semester, do not let any point opportunities pass you by.  The missed points can add up quickly.  Write deadlines in your planner, check your syllabus/Canvas shell daily, and do not procrastinate!  If you have any questions on how to set your Canvas notification settings, do not be afraid to ask.


Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

  • CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
  • CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 05/10/2022 Sub#: 1346