Adapting a Bacterial Unknowns Project to Online Learning: Using Microsoft PowerPoint To Create an Unknowns...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology Education
• Online Learning Technologies

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid transition to online learning for higher education institutions.
• Microbiology laboratory courses faced challenges in adapting in-person activities for remote instruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an accessible and equitable remote learning tool for microbiology laboratory courses.
• To create a bacterial unknowns identification project using readily available software.

Main Methods:

• A simulation was developed using Microsoft PowerPoint for remote bacterial unknowns identification.
• The simulation allows students to apply identification knowledge in a cumulative project format.
• No internet connection is required, ensuring accessibility across diverse student environments.

Main Results:

• The PowerPoint simulation provides a functional and flexible remote learning alternative.
• The simulation is adaptable to various course structures and assessment methods.
• A downloadable template and example are available on GitHub for wider adoption.

Conclusions:

• The developed simulation offers a practical solution for remote microbiology laboratory education.
• This tool enhances accessibility and equity in online science education.
• The simulation's flexibility supports diverse pedagogical approaches in microbiology courses.