Course Title: Introduction to Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics
Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Introduction to Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
BIOL2256 |
City Campus |
Undergraduate |
135H Applied Sciences |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2012, Sem 2 2013, Sem 2 2014, Sem 2 2015, Sem 2 2016 |
BIOL2256 |
City Campus |
Undergraduate |
171H School of Science |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2017, Sem 2 2018, Sem 2 2019, Sem 2 2020, Sem 2 2021, Sem 2 2022, Sem 2 2023 |
BIOL2257 |
Bundoora Campus |
Undergraduate |
135H Applied Sciences |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2012, Sem 2 2013, Sem 2 2014, Sem 2 2015, Sem 2 2016 |
BIOL2257 |
Bundoora Campus |
Undergraduate |
171H School of Science |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2017, Sem 2 2018, Sem 2 2019, Sem 2 2020, Sem 2 2021, Sem 2 2022, Sem 2 2023 |
BIOL2335 |
Open Learning Australia |
Non Award |
171H School of Science |
Distance / Correspondence |
OUASP3UG20, OUASP3UG21, OUASP3UG22 |
Course Coordinator: Dr Christopher Pillidge
Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925
Course Coordinator Email: christopher.pillidge@rmit.edu.au
Course Coordinator Availability: By appointment only
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
None.
Course Description
This course is intended to be an introduction to the inter-related subjects of microbiology, immunology and genetics.
The course is designed to provide you with an understanding at a basic level of the diversity, structure, replication and growth of microorganisms across the three domains of life (Bacteria, Archaea and microbial Eukaryotes) as well as viruses. The course will also introduce you to the role and importance of these microorganisms in health and industry and in the environment. It will introduce you to the methods used to enumerate, isolate, purify and characterise microorganisms safely. It will also introduce you to the main features and functions of the mammalian immune system. The course will also explore the genetic and molecular biology processes and mechanisms that determine the inheritance of traits in biological organisms.
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
This course contributes to the following Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):
2.1. You will exhibit depth and breadth of knowledge by demonstrating a well-developed understanding of biological sciences.
2.2. You will exhibit depth and breadth of knowledge by demonstrating that biotechnology has interdisciplinary connections with other sciences.
3.4. You will be able to critically analyse and solve problems in biotechnology by collecting, accurately recording, interpreting, and drawing conclusions from scientific data.
5.1. You will be accountable for individual learning and scientific work in biotechnology by being an independent and self-directed learner.
5.2. You will be accountable for individual learning and scientific work by working effectively, responsibly, ethically, and safely in an individual or team context.
On completion of this course you should be able to:
- Outline the major groups and modes of growth of microorganisms.
- Describe methods and applications of sterilisation, disinfection and prevention of diseases caused by microorganisms.
- Describe the structure and cellular organisation of diverse microorganisms
- Describe approaches that can be used to culture microorganisms
- Explain the physical (i.e. molecular) nature of genetic inheritance and how genetic variation can arise and contribute to evolution.
- Identify mechanisms of microbial challenge in mammals and the immunological responses in the host.
- Apply your knowledge of basic microbiological techniques and genetic analysis to explore case studies and/or data.
Overview of Learning Activities
You will undertake an integrated series of immersive learning experiences and activities to develop fundamental conceptual and practical understanding and experience of microbiology, immunology and genetics. A blended learning will approach will be used involving face-to-face experiential learning activities complemented by online learning.
Overview of Learning Resources
Learning resources will be provided via the Canvas learning management systems and associated tools, in conjunction with practice-based experiential learning activities.
Overview of Assessment
Note that:
This course has no hurdle requirements.
Assessment will be based on individual performance of requisite assessments completed and/or submitted via the Canvas learning management system.
Assessment 1: Formative assessment of foundation concepts
Weighting 30%
Formative assessment of foundation concepts will provide you with helpful feedback to support development of your learning.
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 & 7
Assessment Task 2: Practical-related Assessments
Weighting 30%
Assessments relating to practical and data analysis skills (including those developed via practical simulations).
This assessment task supports CLOs 3 & 7
Assessment 3: Project assessments.
Assessment activities relating to key topics covered during the course.
Weighting 40%
This assessment supports CLOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6