When Teaching and Learning Microbiology Engage Societal Needs

Area of Science:

• Microbiology Education
• Community-Based Learning
• Public Health

Background:

• Traditional microbiology education often lacks real-world application.
• Societal issues, particularly health disparities in disadvantaged populations, require innovative educational approaches.
• Universities have a role in social responsibility and addressing community needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the integration of community-based learning in microbiology education.
• To present the Service-Learning (S-L) program 'Movies in company for preventing diseases' as a model.
• To outline criteria for designing effective S-L programs in clinical microbiology.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of the 'Movies in company for preventing diseases' S-L program at the Complutense University of Madrid.
• Defining quality criteria for S-L in clinical microbiology: needs identification, curricular connection, social engagement, assessment, and commitment.
• Evaluating the impact on university participants and community partners.

Main Results:

• The S-L program successfully applied academic microbiology knowledge to societal health issues.
• Key criteria for successful S-L design were identified and applied.
• The program fostered social engagement among students and tutors, benefiting underserved communities with health information and support.

Conclusions:

• Service-Learning is an effective model for integrating microbiology education with societal needs.
• Universities can enhance social responsibility by implementing such programs.
• This approach positively impacts both academic learning and community well-being.