Microbiology Core Curriculum Objectives

Lecture Topics

Upon completion of the Introductory Microbiology Course the student should be able to discuss the following:

I.  The Microbial Cell

                  A.  Compare and contrast the prokaryote and the eukaryote, considering                                  regulation of activities, cell structure, function, growth, division and                                 metabolic activity.

                  B.  Explain how classification and identification of life forms are determined                                and the usefulness of classification.

                  B.  Describe methods used to control growth of microbes outside the host.

II.  Microbial Genetics

A.     Describe DNA and RNA structure and function.

B.     Describe protein synthesis, including nucleic acids involved, use of amino acids, and site of synthesis within the cell.

C.     Describe the process of inheritance of genetic information.

D.     Describe the causes and results of mutations and the potential for use, including genetic engineering and biotechnology.

E.      Explain what is meant by horizontal gene transfer and how it occurs in nature.

III.  Interactions Between Microbes and Humans

A.     Explain why site is important when determining whether or not a microbe is considered “normal microbiota”.

B.     Explain what is meant when describing a microbe as pathogenic.

C.     Describe the mechanisms by which pathogenic microbes can be transmitted.

D.     Describe the process of disease development.

E.      Describe the mechanisms by which microbes can cause harm to the vertebrate host.

F.      Explain the processes of nonspecific defense and specific immune response of the vertebrate host, including interaction between the two processes.

G.     Differientiate between the chemotherapeutic agents used to control the growth of microbes within the host.

H.     Explain the importance of infection prevention.

The following techniques should be introduced in the laboratory component of the class and the student should demonstrate familiarity with them:

I.  Microscope Use

A.     Proper use of the brightfield microscope to view and interpret slides by:

1.      Correctly preparing the microscope for use

2.      Focusing the microscope, using the correct lenses for each step

3.      Cleaning all lenses

4.      Preparing the microscope for storage

5.      Recording microscopic observations

II.  Slide and smear preparation

A.     Preparing smears from liquid and solid media

B.     Performing simple and Gram stains

C.     Proper slide disposal

III.  Properly use aseptic techniques for transfer and handling of microorganisms

                  A.  Maintenance of sterility of transfer instruments.

B.     Aseptic transfer of microbes.

IV.  Appropriate microbiological media selection

A.     Pure culture techniques.

B.     Maintenance of pure cultures.

C.     Selection of appropriate media for identification of selected microbes.

D.     Accurately recording observations describing colony morphology.

V.  Appropriate and safe use of procedures and equipment for the following:

                  A.  Determination of numbers based on the source of the sample, to include,                                    but not limited to pour plates, spread plates and serial dilutions.

                  B.  Incubation of cultures.

C.     Sterilization of media and cultures.

D.     Determination of effective methods of control, to include, but not limited to antibiotic disk diffusion testing, antiseptic and disinfectant use tests.

E.      Use of bacticinerator to maintain sterility of transfer instruments.

Students should also demonstrate the following cognitive skills in the laboratory component:

I.  Understanding and application of the scientific method.

II.  Analysis of information should include organized data collection, presentation, and         assessment of data validity to draw appropriate conclusions.

III.  Communication skills associated with presentation of results.

IV.  Interpersonal and citizenry skills, characterized by working effectively with others,       managing time and tasks, integrating knowledge to make informed judgments.

Students are also expected to explain the following safe practices:

I.  Containment and cleanup of spills

II.  Minimal production of aerosols.

III.  Handwashing.

IV.  Universal precautions.

V.  Lab bench disinfectant use.

VI.  Identification and disposal of waste.

VII.  Proper handling and storage of materials, including an uncluttered workspace.

VIII.  Use of eye protection, gloves, coats, closed toe shoes, hair restraint.

IX.  No mouth pipetting.

X.  No eating or drinking in the lab.

XI.  No use of cosmetics in the lab.

XII.  No handling of contact lenses in the lab.

XIII.  No placing objects such as pencils or fingers in mouth or eyes or on the face.

XIV.  Reporting all spills and injuries immediately to the instructor.

XV.  Acceptance of a laboratory safety agreement.