Microbes Without Borders

3 Credits

This course will make students aware of the importance of the diversity of microbes and the significance in our everyday lives. Different microbes are explored in readings, audiovisual materials, and hands-on explorations. Topics include viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi, microbes and art, bioterrorism, GMOs and biotechnology, food production and the role of microbes in agriculture. Issues like disease spread and prevention, vaccines and drug resistance will be examined. This course affords students the ability to critically examine and evaluate the principles of the scientific method, model construction, and use the scientific method to explain natural experiences and phenomena.