The Microbial World
Duration
- One Semester or equivalent
Contact hours
- 56 hours face to face + blended
On-campus unit delivery combines face-to-face and digital learning.
Prerequisites
BIO10001 Concepts of BiologyAims and objectives
This unit of study aims to develop basic concepts of microbiology and the practical skills and techniques required in microbiological analysis. It will prepare students for studies in advanced topics in microbiology and applications in biomolecular science and will provide a variety of practical laboratory experiences where students can apply their theoretical knowledge to practical situations
Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO)
Students who successfully complete this Unit will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental ideas and applications of a variety of microbiological methods
2. Describe the unique properties of microbial cell organisation, metabolism, growth and nutrition
3. Recognise how microbial growth can be monitored and controlled, particularly in the context of human health and disease
4. Describe and appreciate the important roles microorganisms play in biomolecular applications
Unit information in detail
- Teaching methods, assessment and content.
Teaching methods
Hawthorn
Type | Hours per week | Number of Weeks | Total |
On Campus Lecture | 3 | 12 | 36 |
| On Campus Science Lab | 2 | 10 | 20 |
| Online Directed Online Learning | 1 | 12 | 12 |
Unspecified Activities Independent Learning | 6.83 | 12 | 82 |
TOTAL | 150 hours |
Assessment
| Types | Individual or Group task | Weighting | Assesses attainment of these ULOs |
| Exam 1 | Individual | 25-30% | 1,2,4 |
| Exam 2 | Individual | 25-30% | 1,2,4 |
| Online quizzes | Individual | 10% | 1,3,4 |
| Lab reports | Individual | 25-30% | 1,2,3 |
Hurdle
As the minimum requirements of assessment to pass a unit and meet all Unit Learning Outcomes to a minimum standard, a student must achieve:
(i) an aggregate mark of 50% or more, and
(ii) Obtain at least 40% in the final exam, and
(iii) Complete a minimum of 80% of laboratory work based on the criteria for successful completion as explained in the lab handout(s).
Students who do not successfully achieve hurdle requirement (ii) and (iii) will receive a maximum of 45% as the total mark for the unit.
Content
• Major types of microorganisms
• Structure and function of bacterial cells, including morphology, and key internal and external structures
• Nutrition and growth of bacteria, including metabolism, energy use, culture media and enumeration methods
• Control of microbial growth, including physical and chemical methods
• Microbial genetics, including DNA function, mutation and gene transfer
• Structure and function of bacterial cells, including morphology, and key internal and external structures
• Nutrition and growth of bacteria, including metabolism, energy use, culture media and enumeration methods
• Control of microbial growth, including physical and chemical methods
• Microbial genetics, including DNA function, mutation and gene transfer
Study resources
- Reading materials.
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required texts will be made available in the Unit Outline.