Micr & Molecular Genetics: Unseen Wrlds:Microbes & You

Examination of current topics in Microbiology, such as antibiotic resistance, vaccinations, sexually transmitted diseases, and the human microbiome, focusing on the impact of microbes on human and animal health, the environment, agriculture, and modern culture around the world.

Open to Degree and PACE students.

The overall goal of this course is to inform students on current topics in Microbiology, such as the human microbiome, infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, vaccinations, and genetically modified microbes. In addition, the impact of microbes on global ‘One Health’, environmental and economic sustainability, agriculture, and modern socio-cultural diversity will be reinforced using lecture-based and discussion-based pedagogies.

By the end of this course, students will be able to: 1. Describe the fundamental roles of microorganisms on Earth and their impacts, both positive and negative, on humans and other living systems. 2. Describe the ubiquity of microorganisms and their capacity to evolve and adapt. 3. Explain the global inequities associated with infectious disease and disease prevention. 4. Explain how microbes are or could be harnessed to deal with global issues such as sustainable fuel, food security, bioremediation etc. 5. Propose ways in which individuals and communities can make choices that foster beneficial outcomes for human health, the environment, and society both locally and globally.

50% In-class Exams (4) – the last during finals week. 20% Weekly Online Quizzes (10) 10% Blog posts (3) 20% Reflection Paper (2)