Use of Long-Term E. coli Cultures To Study Generation of Genetic Diversity & Teach General Microbiology Laboratory Skills

From: The American Biology Teacher | Date: February 1, 2005| Author: Petrie, Angela; Finkel, Steven E; Erbe, Jarrod | Copyright information

Introductory microbiology students are expected to learn a wide variety of laboratory techniques. These include preparation, sterilization, and use of microbiological media; gram staining and light microscopy; serial dilution and cell counting; and the safe handling of bacterial strains. Unfortunately, instruction focused on the individual skills frequently does little to capture the students' interest. The introduction of microbial culture techniques within the context of an inquiry-based pr...