Remote Online Project: Traveling in a Virtual World, Researching Microbes

The undergraduate general microbiology course-based research projects were disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020. Therefore, we developed a remote online research project that combines aspects of microbiology lectures and laboratory techniques. The project allows students to virtually travel to environmental sites to research different microorganisms. This virtual project successfully replaced the in-person laboratory experience for the duration of the semester. We revised the project with assistance from undergraduate students enrolled in the spring course. Our revised virtual project helps students develop their scientific writing and presentation skills while applying microbiology course and laboratory knowledge. The project is designed to create a more equal and equitable assessment process by including detailed guidelines and rubrics. Projects are easy to implement and can be completed within 5 to 6 weeks. The project will promote students' understanding of the process of scientific research and enrich academic development.