The module will cover knowledge required for the Record of Laboratory Training for the Specialist Diploma in Medical Microbiology. The module will enable biomedical scientists to reflect on, consolidate and develop specialist knowledge, at the postgraduate level, required for employment as a specialist practitioner in biomedical science.

The module will address the principles and concepts of isolating and identifying infectious agents. The module will concentrate on bacterial disease but with reference to other infectious agents where relevant. Material will focus on the methods currently used in medical microbiology laboratories and will include all clinical samples which are routinely analysed and environmental samples which are processed as part of infection control policies. In addition an awareness of common bacterial pathogens and an overview of the disease process will be explored.

The appropriate procedures for handling specimens before and after analysis will be discussed including the collection, transport, storage of specimens, specimen preparation and safe disposal of biological samples.

A wide range of methods for the identification of infectious agents will be considered including microscopic examination, the use of selective media, biochemical and serological tests, the detection of toxins, automated and rapid detection techniques. All methods will be critically evaluated by discussing advantages and disadvantages of different tests, comparing presumptive and full identification and qualitative and quantitative testing systems and recognising false results and the requirement for repeat testing.

Generic knowledge required of a practising biomedical scientist, such as quality assurance, quality control and the use of audits to ensure the correct application of laboratory procedures will be evaluated.

B.Sc (Hons) in Biomedical Science or equivalent
Health Professional Council registered biomedical scientist

PCs with access to the internet.
Access to library resources (Athens, e-journals etc)
Rooms for workshops

Portfolio of tasks (100%).

The portfolio will comprise the task you are set on each of the topics covered in the award. The tasks will vary and will include short essays, PowerPoint presentations, critical evaluations, compare and contrast, audit trails and problem solving activities.

Formative feedback will be offered for four, specified tasks throughout the award. Further formative feedback will be provided in the full day workshop.

As a distance learning module, material will be delivered through Blackboard. Delivery will be organised into ten topics, each delivered in separate learning units of up to four weeks in duration. Each learning unit will comprise core reading and/or case studies and a task to be completed for inclusion in the portfolio. In addition a question will be posted on the discussion board to allow students to engage in online discussion on a range of topics and to compare different practices performed in individual labs. There will be regular tutor feedback throughout the module by tutor contribution to the discussion board. Students will also be given the opportunity to receive individual feedback by submitting work for formative feedback.

There will be two workshops (twelve hours in total). The first will be a half day at the beginning of the module and will introduce the learners to the module and how to use Blackboard. The second will be a full day and will allow learners to discuss material covered and to provide formative feedback on their work.

Greenwood, D., Slack, R.C. and Peutherer, J.F. (2002) Medical Microbiology (16th Ed.) Churchill Livingstone
Lydyard, P. et al. (2010) Case Studies in Infectious Disease. Garland Science