Professor: Campbell Course format: Lecture w/section Number of respondents: 22 Total Enrollment: 32 Class Composition: Froshs: 4 Sophs: 10 Jrs: 12 Srs: 6 Concs: ? Non-Concs: ? Don't Know: ?

Instructor Average: 1.57 Course Average: 1.45

“Biology of Emerging Microbial Diseases” introduces students to the life cycles, biochemistry, and molecular biology related to parasite infections. The course focuses on the effect of protozoan diseases, beginning in underdeveloped countries that are now causing health problems in the U.S. The only prerequisite for the course is Bio 20, although Bio 47 is recommended. Students strongly suggested also taking Bio 53 to gain a background in immunology. Previous laboratory skills were useful as well.

According to the majority of survey correspondents, Professor Campbell was knowledgeable, organized, engaging, and passionate. His power-point lectures were very helpful, and he was always receptive to questions. He met individually with each student to return their exams, but did not always take into account the range in background biology among class members during lectures. Reviewers also complained that his lectures often ran late.

Respondents felt that the assigned readings were very interesting, but often not relevant to the exams and too detailed. Students greatly appreciated the class handouts. In terms of grading criteria, the work for this course consisted of two exams, 10 weekly quizzes, and one final. Most students found the exams to be very long and challenging.

Prospective students can anticipate spending on average four to eight hours per week on work attributable to this course. Most respondents thought that this time commitment surpassed their initial expectations. Take this class, because it is interesting, challenging, and worthwhile, but definitely take genetics and try to take immunology before you attempt this course!

View BI/0054 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.