This resource is a set of virtual, interactive bacteriology labs that were developed to allow the student to learn a variety tests that are done in a diagnostic microbiology laboratory to identify bacterial pathogens from patient samples. Each module demonstrates a different laboratory test, and the student is able to carry out and interpret the results of each test with controls and unknowns. Instructions are provided within each on-line module.
Type of Material:
Collection (of simulations)
Recommended Uses:
As homework or a pre-lab before class, in class as a virtual demonstration.
Technical Requirements:
The site was viewed with Google Chrome Version 59.0.3071.115. and Safari 12.0.1 (14606.2.104.1.1). Needs Java and Flash.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
1. To learn to prepare and interpret a gram stain. 2. To learn to streak an agar plate to isolate bacteria, generating a pure culture. 3. To become familiar with differential and selective media for cultivation of pathogenic bacteria. 4. To learn to perform and interpret basic biochemical tests on bacterial samples. 5. To learn to interpret standard antimicrobial susceptibility tests. 6. To become familiar with procedures to handle different types of biological specimens and to isolate and identify bacterial pathogens in those specimens.
Target Student Population:
High School, College General Ed, College Lower Division, College Upper Division.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Students will need basic computer navigational skills (enter URL, click and drag, etc.). Otherwise, the interface is very user-friendly. No specific prerequisite knowledge required because the site allows students to read about necessary components before starting each simulation, but basic microbiology knowledge is useful.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
Content is accurate and complete
Information about each lab test as well as practical demonstrations of how to perform the test are included
Clearly and accurately demonstrates each of the major steps of the process
Simulations usually include positive and negative controls where appropriate
Steps of each laboratory test are summarized in written format as well as the interactive simulation format
High quality visual design
Concerns:
None
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
Includes step by step instructions and lets the user virtually completes the test
Summarizes the steps of each test in written format, video format, and in visual simulation
Each test can be completed virtually in a short time
A PDF of each test instructions is provided
An introduction to each test is provided, discussing the application and general considerations relevant to that test
The virtual simulations are clear and easy to follow (if a user knows the basic protocol for the test)
Each simulation can be completed in as little as 5-10 minutes for diligent students
The graphics in the simulations are easy to interpret and follow, despite lack of realism in some cases
Some simulations (Gram staining) have actual micrographs to show results
Students are specifically informed when they make an error like doing something in the wrong order or trying to select a colony that is not isolated
Concerns:
The tests are interactive, however, the interactivity does not extend to allowing errors, and requires some busy work tasks (like real lab work, but perhaps this will not be perceived positively by all users)
The graphics in the simulations are mostly cartoons--they are clear and may or may not be received in a positive way by users
Does not specifically identify prerequisite knowledge for each simulation, although a description and list of steps ahead of time seeks to familiarize students with the concepts before they begin each simulation eliminates much need for this
No way to assess student learning/outcomes or to give a completion grade other than asking students to email a screenshot of their completed simulation.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The navigation is generally clear and easy to follow
All links and simulations appeared to work
The menus within each test, including the link to the simulation, to instructions, credits, and a PDF of the test are all easy to find and use
Easy to follow instructions
Concerns:
ADA information is not provided
No audio component for students with vision impairments
The last menu item button has text extending beyond the button
The Biochemical Tests button brings up a submenu; if the user clicks on the main button, the submenu disappears and will not return unless the user clicks off the button and then back on it
Creative Commons:
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