Online
Jun 15-Aug 07, 2009
Credit: 3 graduate
Cost: $914.45
Instructor(s): Elinor Pulcini

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Course Description: This course is designed to provide an understanding of the fundamentals of genetic processes in bacteria (prokaryotes). The study of bacterial genetics has provided much of the understanding of fundamental genetic processes for all organisms, especially through the use of in vivo and in vitro genetic tools. Prokaryotic genetics is somewhat simpler than eukaryotic genetics due to the organization of the cell, its genome and transfer of genetic information. However, the basic concepts such as transcription, translation, mutation and recombination are similar if not identical in all organisms. The short generation time of bacteria lends themselves to genetic studies. Bacterial genetics labs are becoming easier to use, are relatively inexpensive and provide an ideal platform for genetic studies in the secondary school setting. This course will provide science teachers with the information necessary to understand the fundamental processes of genetics particularly as they apply to microorganisms. Emphasis will be placed on the advances in microbial genetics and effects on technological and medical advances.

Major topics to be covered:

1.) Why study Prokaryotic genetics

2.) DNA and RNA

• Bacterial chromosomes
• Plasmids
• Protection of DNA

• DNA Repair

• Genetic transfer
• Transformation
• Conjugation
• Bacteriophage
• Transposable elements

• Operons
• Gene expression

• Tools and protocols
• World Wide Web Databases

• Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
• Technological advances
• Controls and cautions

Meeting Place and Times: Teachers login to the course at a time of day that best fits their schedule. It is necessary to connect at least 4 - 6 times per week to stay current and successfully complete this 3 credit course.

Instructor(s): Elinor Pulcini, PhD. Department of Microbiology, Montana State University

Prerequisites: A minimum of one year of science teaching and at least one college level course in either biology or microbiology.

Target Audience: The course is designed primarily for teachers with one year of teaching experience seeking graduate credit in Microbiology.

Time Commitment: 15-20 hours per week. If you are unfamiliar with this field of study and/or method of delivery, you may require more time.

The cost of the course assumes that you are taking only online courses from Montana State University (MSU) and/or specially designated courses through MSU Extended University during the semester that the course is offered. If you are also taking regular face-to-face courses from Montana State University, other costs may apply.

Montana State University charges a $3.25 per credit hour computer fee for this course. (The fee is $3.15 per credit hour during summer session 2009.)

MSU also charges a $30 registration fee per student per semester. If you have not yet paid this fee, you may do so when you register for this course.

To learn more, please see the University Business Services' Student Accounts Web page.

Required Books/Materials:

• Current literature including research and review articles will be provided electronically by the instructor. In addition, students will be directed to a number of websites, such as the American Society for Microbiology and Centers for Disease Control.

Computer Requirements:

• Computer running Windows 2000 or newer or Mac OS X or higher
• CD-ROM drive
• Internet access

This course uses a learning management system. You will learn more closer to the course start date.

For More Information: contact Diana Paterson at dianap@montana.edu or 406-994-5679.

How to Register: Register Online

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