DCU Home | Our Courses | Loop | Registry | Library | Search DCU

Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2022 - 2023

Module Title
Module Code
School

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

This module aims to develop the student's expertise and understanding of basic microbiological and genetic techniques. It will develop their ability to critically address scientific challenges through laboratory experimentation. It will promote safety awareness, teamwork and critical thinking in the design and execution of experiments

Learning Outcomes

1. Comprehend the importance of standards/controls in biological analysis.
2. Isolate and enumerate bacteria.
3. Identify microbes using microscopic and biochemical tests.
4. Determine, interpret and discuss the growth kinetics of microbes growing in batch culture.
5. Determine, interpret and discuss the effects of antibiotics on bacteria.
6. Demonstrate, interpret and discuss the conjugative transfer of a bacterial plasmid.
7. Determine the titre of a stock of bacteriophage.
8. Act in accordance with safe laboratory practice in terms of conduct, attire, risk minimisation and appropriate waste disposal.
9. Generate concise, objective, properly structured scientific reports.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Online activity27Viewing pre-recorded DCU laboratory experiments and engaging in Loop quizzes related to that material
Laboratory18Groupwork - conducting laboratory experiments
Independent Study53Groupwork - analysis of one's own laboratory data in consultation with partner.
Online activity27Laboratory report preparation.
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Microscopic analysis/staining of bacteria

Purification of bacterial cultures

Identification of bacteria using selective/differential media and biochemical tests

Identification of an unknown bacterium

Microbial growth (batch culture)

Antibiotic activity

Plating and titering of bacteriophage

Bacterial conjugation

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

    Other Resources

    43927, Laboratory Manual, School of Biotechnology, 0, Microbiology and Genetics Laboratory Manual,
    Programme or List of Programmes
    Archives: