As a survey text, the goal of the Microbiology
textbook is to hit the highlights of the science of microbiology and
spark an interest in continuing deeper study in some area of the discipline. The
text combines elements of cell biology, cell structure and function,
genetics, biochemistry and immunology and presents them through the
perspective of the microorganism. It explores the various microbial
life forms that comprise the sciences of bacteriology, mycology, virology
and phycology and illustrates the impact microbes have on our lives
by explaining how they function as distinct entities within a complex
biosphere. Evaluating cause and effect relationships, such as microbial
causes of disease, by the scientific method are good exercises for developing
critical thinking skills. Many such examples are found in throughout
the text to illustrate how scientists throughout the history of microbiology
have solved problems.
Because of the many contributing areas
of science, microbiology is often perceived as a complex and difficult
subject. However, if you study and focus on microbiology, assisted
by other sciences, you will gain insight into the science of microbiology
and how it has impacted human culture.
Here are some study tips to help you:
Come to class ready to participate.
Read assigned material before each respective lecture. The material
will make better sense after you have read about it at least once.
Reading the material before class, coming to class with questions
or answers, and showing up with an open mind is an excellent way to
learn.
Seek assistance with difficult
concepts early. See your instructor for an explanation of
terms, principles or techniques, which you don’t understand.
Use office hours!
Remember, microbiology is a comprehensive
biology course. It is not a course that you can pass by just
memorizing the facts. Think through the reasons why experiments were
performed. Analyze data or relationships to understand conclusions
drawn from them.
Regularly attend classes.
Information will be presented and concepts will be developed in class
that will not be effectively communicated by reading the notes of
another. You need to experience each class yourself.
Don’t wait until the day
before an exam to prepare for it. Learning is an ongoing,
full-time job. Read before class. Re-read after class. Review your
notes frequently. Ask questions. Get feedback. Don’t wait until
it’s too late to get help.
Use study aids. (1)
Try dividing notebook paper with a line down the center. Keep class
notes on one half and corresponding book notes on the other half.
(2) After each lecture, write down 3-5 questions that reflect the
essence of the lecture material. (3) Find other members of the class
who will agree to write questions for each lecture, and share them.
(4) Use the Online Learning Center to take study quizzes and explore
related topics on the World Wide Web.
Like everything else, "practice
makes perfect."!
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