BIOSCI-221 - Introduction to Microbiology - Loni Hands
| Course: | Introduction to Microbiology |
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| Professor: | Loni Hands |
| Email: | loni.hands@canyons.edu |
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| Course Length: |
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Introduction
This course will not only allow you to learn the information presented, but to apply the information as well. What this means is that the focus will not only be on memorizing material, but understanding the material and using your knowledge of the material to apply this information to new concepts and situations. This will help you to improve your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
We will meet via Zoom (through Canvas) for our scheduled class meetings (Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:30-9:35 PM). Check that your system can handle running Zoom: Zoom system requirements for iOS, iPadOS, and Android (https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201179966-System-requirements-for-iOS-iPadOS-and-Android) OR Zoom system requirements for Windows, macOS, and Linux (https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362023-System-requirements-for-Windows-macOS-and-Linux). When connecting to Zoom, a webcam is preferred but not required.
All course work will be submitted to the class Canvas site. To complete the required assignments, quizzes, exams, etc., you will need a computer (some assignments can be completed using a tablet, but not exams or labs!) - a computer is necessary for using Proctorio on exams (system requirements for Proctorio: https://proctorio.com/system-requirements).
You must be able to attach files to emails, upload files to Canvas, etc., including scanned images of written assignments (a free PDF converting app such as CamScanner can help with this if you do not have a scanner). Some assignments, quizzes, tests, etc. may require you to remain online for several hours at a time.
The best way to reach me with questions is by email or sending a message through Canvas. I can also meet with you via Zoom (online video chat) if that is a preferable mode of communication for you.
I know that online classes can be challenging, so I encourage you to ask questions when you need help, either by contacting me or a classmate or by posting to the discussion forums on Canvas. I am available by email and via appointments through Zoom (on Canvas) and happy to help!
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. You should anticipate spending a minimum of 6 hours a week on the computer in Zoom for the lecture material as well as the lab notes and online labs. 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. Microbiology is a 5 credit course, therefore a minimum of 10 hours per week should be set aside for reviewing and studying the material. In summary that is 3 hours for the asynchronous learning activities on Canvas, 6 hours for the laboratory activities, and 10 hours for studying, for a total of 19 hours per week MINIMUM.
This class is 100% online. You will need to have access to Zoom to attend class and office hours. You will also need to download a proctoring software (Proctorio) for exams. All course work will be posted to Canvas or provided during class Zoom meetings.
If you are in need of special accommodations, you should register with the Academic Accommodation Center (AAC) (formerly DSP&S (Disabled Students Program & Services)) at COC at the beginning of the semester so that they can work with you to identify what accommodations and resources you may need to complete this course. They will provide you with an official accommodation letter for the current semester, which you should send me a copy of by the second week of the semester. That will ensure that your needs are met in a timely manner (see Academic Accommodation Center or Disabled Students Program & Services section below for more details).
Types of Assessments
In order to complete the labs online, you will be required to purchase access to an online virtual lab program available from McGraw-Hill. You will purchase it through our Canvas course shell. You will need access to the program starting on the first day of class. If you have financial aid that will not come through by the first day, there is an option for a two week trial period while you secure the required funds. The virtual lab program is best accessed on a computer. Accessing via tablet or smartphone will not give you the same functionality and you will not be able to complete the labs properly.
We will discuss the lecture textbook on the first day of class. You will complete homework assignments through access to the lecture textbook.
All exams and assignments will be posted to Canvas. Assessments will consist of a variety of exams, quizzes, and assignments, such as worksheets and discussions. Assignments may need to be typed or written and scanned (a PDF converting app such as CamScanner will work for this). Exams may contain a variety of question formats, including multiple choice, choose all that apply, fill in the blank, short answer, etc.
Textbook Information
Talaro, Found of Microbio (loose-leaf)+Connect Access, with ISBN: 9781265024420
OR
Talaro, Found of Microbio-Connect Access (w/ebk access) with ISBN: 9781264635863
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 first. If you put in the effort, there are lots of opportunities to succeed in this class. 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.
Attendance on Zoom on the first day is required. If you are absent on the first day of class, you will be dropped from the course.
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
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Last updated: 08/19/2021 Sub#: 556