Invited Speaker Australian Society for Microbiology Annual Scientific Meeting 2023

A tale of two cohorts: teaching one microbiology unit into two different degrees (94436)

Katherine Hammer 1
  1. The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia

In keeping with the theme of Diversity, Inclusivity and Education for all, this presentation describes both the difficulties and the positive experiences of teaching one microbiology unit to students from two different degree programs. The presentation draws on experiences gained from teaching two unique Master’s level student cohorts with differing background knowledge, bringing diverse experiences and expectations with them. Changes to unit timetabling, delivery and teaching methods are discussed as well as how student feedback has informed the learning and teaching approaches. Catering for diverse student cohorts within one subject unit has highlighted areas where students require additional academic support, and where assumptions made about background acknowledge and capacity to integrate new knowledge require reconsideration.