Professor: Gregory Course format: Lecture w/lab Number of respondents: 22 Total Enrollment: 29 Class Composition: Froshs: 8 Sophs: 8 Jrs: 7 Srs: 5 Concs: ? Non-Concs: ? Don't Know: ?

Instructor Average: 1.55 Course Average: 1.54

“Introductory Microbiology” gives students a broad overview of the principles of microbiology at a cellular and molecular level. Topics covered include the role of microorganisms in infectious diseases, genetics, and biotechnology. Prerequisites for the course are Bio 20 and Chem 22. Students agreed that the stronger your science background is, the more you will get out of the class.

Class members noted that the two professors had slightly different teaching styles. Reviewers felt that Professor Gregory gave clear, straightforward lectures that went at a good pace, but were dry at times. He was very approachable outside of class and was sensitive to students needs. Professor O’Conner was a well organized lecturer who sent his power-point files to students before class by email. The lectures covered a lot of material, however, and some felt that it became confusing at times. Like Gregory, he was also open to questions from students and accessible outside of class. Students appreciated the lecture handouts that explained the concepts well.

Respondents felt that the textbook reading was helpful as a supplement to the information given during lecture, but was not crucial for the exams. The coursework consisted of two exams, one final, and ten lab reports, which counted for very little.

Students spent between three to five hours per week outside of class for the course, with more time spent completing the lab reports. Most reviewers had expected to do more work for the class. Take this course if you are looking for a “straightforward” biology class without a heavy workload, and are interested in learning all about those tiny microbes and their role in infectious diseases!

View BI/0051 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.