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BioSci-221 - Introduction to Microbiology - Dr. Melania Abrahamian

Course:Introduction to Microbiology
Professor:Dr. Melania Abrahamian
Email:melania.abrahamian@canyons.edu
Format:
  • InPerson
Course Length:
  • 16 Week

Introduction

Microbiology

Hello everyone! My name is Melania Abrahamian and I will be your instructor for the BioSci 221!

In this course we'll dive into the fascinating world of microorganism (bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and fungi)! We'll touch on their shapes, inner workings, how they function, and the ways we categorize and recognize them. And not just that, we'll also look at the crucial roles these tiny entities play in our lives.

Course Description

Prerequisites: Completion of BioSci 100 or 107 (or an equivalent course) with a minimum grade of "C" is required. It is recommended that students have undertaken college-level chemistry, such as Chem 151 or its equivalent.

Course Description: This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the world of microorganisms, encompassing entities like bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and fungi. Participants will gain insights into their morphology, anatomy, physiology, classification methods, and identification procedures. Furthermore, the pivotal roles of these microorganisms in human contexts will be extensively explored.

Lecture Learning Outcomes: By the end of the lectures, students will be equipped to:

Differentiate between major categories of microorganisms based on morphology, anatomy, physiology, evolutionary history, and identification techniques.
Understand the omnipresence of microbes and their consequential roles in human diseases.

Laboratory Learning Outcomes: In the laboratory sessions, students will:

Showcase proficiency in aseptic techniques and microbiological procedures while emphasizing laboratory safety.
Accurately interpret results and data concerning microbial physiology and identification.

What to Expect in this Course

Microbiology is a fast paced inperson course and there is a lot of content to cover in a short period of time. 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. 

Types of Assessments

Assessments will consist of a variety of exams, quizzes, and assignments, such as worksheets and discussions. Assignments may need to be typed or written. Exams may contain a variety of question formats, including multiple choice, choose all that apply, fill in the blank, short answer, etc.

Textbook Information

1.  Required Textbook:

Microbiology, Access for free at https://openstax.org/books/microbiology/pages/1-introduction (hardcopy not required).

2.  Required Laboratory Manual:

BioSci 221 Lab Manual: Introduction to Microbiology Lab Manual, Burke, 2017.  Only available from the COC bookstore (hardcopy not required). 

Other Relevant Course Information

Attendance & Tardiness Policies

  • Attendance is required per college policy, which states, “Any student absent for any reason for more than 10% of the class meetings may be dropped by the instructor prior to 75% of the course.
    • Any student absent on the first day of class/lab will be automatically dropped.
    • For a 16-week online course, the following exceeds the 10% absence criterion:
      • failure to submit 10 or more days-worth of online assignments
      • no online activity for 10 or more days
    • It is the student's responsibility to consult with the instructor regarding any absences.

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: 08/15/2023 Sub#: 1633

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