Identification of Viruses and Diagnosis of Viral Disease
A Teaching Module in Academic Biotechnology


Developed by Dr. Tineke Sexton, Dr. Nazanin Hebel, and Ms. Doris Rousey
Houston Community College - Northwest
Published Spring, 2003

Purpose Statement:
This module is a teaching tool, designed to give students a sense of how science is done. To simulate a research environment, we have chosen to focus on a single question: “What is a virus and what does it do?” Through a wide variety of interrelated activities that incorporate the latest in biotechnology and online tools, students will learn how such questions are answered, and how basic knowledge can lead to innovative products.



(Image from Virology.net, The Big Picture Book of Viruses, 2002)

Learning and Teaching Methodology:

This module offers a “buffet” of mix-and-match activities based on:

1. Student level (beginner, intermediate, advanced)
2. Student learning styles
3. Equipment availability and budget
4. Traditional wet lab activities vs. innovative computer-based activities
5. Classroom time commitment
6. Faculty and/or student interests

Potential methods for dissemination of the module could include:

1. Face-to-face workshops for faculty
2. Online for student use in the classroom
3. Online for student use at home (homework assignments)

Expectations:

Through this module, students will:

The instructor:

The student:

Select from the following module components:

Background on Viruses
Purpose Statement
Activity 1 - Student Learning Strategies
Activity 1 - Student Procedure
Activity 1 - Student Assessment Tools
Activity 1 - Instructor Teaching Strategies
Activity 1 - Answers to Assessment Tools (For Instructors)
Activity 2 - Student Learning Strategies
Activity 2 - Student Procedure
Activity 2 - Student Assessment Tools
Activity 2 - Instructor Teaching Strategies
Activity 2 - Answers to Assessment Tools (For Instructors)
Module Assessment
User Evaluation Form