BIO 118 Microbes and Society 3 Credits
Description:
An introduction to the science of microbiology addressing the role of microorganisms in nature and in human welfare. Contemporary topics will include infectious diseases, genetic engineering, the environment and biological warfare.
Pre-requisites: None
Competencies:
Upon completion of this course, the student can:
1. Describe the role of microbiology in the historical development of the scientific method.
2. Discuss the diversity of microbial life.
3. Identify the requirements for growth and control of microorganisms.
4. Relate the role of microorganisms in natural cycles.
5. Relate the role of microorganisms in food production and spoilage.
6. Discuss the use of microorganisms in biotechnology/genetic engineering.
7. Discuss the role of microorganisms in health and disease.
8. Assess the use of microorganisms as agents of bioterrorism
Outline:
I. The role of microbiology in the development of the scientific method
A. Leeuwenhoek
B. Needham, spontaneous generation
C. Pasteur, Koch and the germ theory of disease
D. Erhlich, Fleming and the development of antibiotics
II. Evolution of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms
A. Viruses
B. Bacteria
C. Protozoa
D. Algae
E. Fungi
III. Bacterial growth and metabolism
A. Growth requirements
B. Bacterial growth curve
C. Products of bacterial growth
IV. Bacterial Genetics
A. Bacterial chromosome
B. Genetic recombination
C. Recombinant DNA technology
V. Microbes and the environment
A. Cycles of nature
B. Waste disposal
C. Bioremediation
VI. Food microbiology
A. Food production/preservation
B. Food spoilage
VII. Bacterial diseases
A. Diseases and history
B. Airborne diseases
C. Food/waterborne diseases
D. Zoonoses
E. Contact/sexually transmitted diseases
F. Biological weapons
Learning Resources: (Suggested)
Alcamo, I. Edward (2003) Microbes and Society: An Introduction to Microbiology Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett Publishers
Karlen, Arno (199)5 Man and Microbes: Diseases and Plagues in History and Modern Times New York, NY: G. P. Putnam's Sons
Dates of Actions:
Approved:
Revised: Submitted 2005