Environmental microbiology Field of study: Environmental Protection
Programme code: W2-S1OS19.2023

Module name: Environmental microbiology
Module code: 1OS_23_19
Programme code: W2-S1OS19.2023
Semester:
  • winter semester 2025/2026
  • winter semester 2024/2025
Language of instruction: depending on the choice
Form of verification: course work
ECTS credits: 2
Purpose and description of the content of education:
The module familiarizes the student with the basics of environmental microbiology. It presents the structure of microorganism cells, interactions of microorganisms and functions performed by their individual structural elements. It allows to understand the mechanisms determining the adaptation of mechanisms enabling for survival in extreme environments. Characterizes the microflora of soil, water and air and their role in the functioning of these environments. It provides knowledge about the relationship between microorganisms and other organisms, including humans, and the physico-chemical parameters of the environment. Students gets to know the sources of environmental pollution and the functioning of microorganisms in contaminated environments. Student learns the basic microbiological techniques, as well as methods of work based on standardized methodologies in the field of sampling, water and soil analysis, as well as quality control of research. Student acquires the skills of preparing preparations of microorganisms, isolation of microorganisms from the environment. Laboratory classes also teach the analysis and interpretation of the obtained results. Students will also learn the basic principles of quality control of laboratory media. Students acquire theoretical knowledge in the field of general principles of work in the laboratory - they learn the differences between an ordinary and an accredited/certified laboratory.
List of modules that must be completed before starting this module (if necessary): not applicable
Learning outcome of the module Codes of the learning outcomes of the programme to which the learning outcome of the module is related [level of competence: scale 1-5]
Knows the structure of prokaryotic cells, understands the processes occurring in the cells of microorganisms Describes the interactions between microorganisms and biotic and abiotic elements of the environment, is able to assess the impact of physicochemical parameters of the environment on the growth and activity of microorganisms [M01]
 1OS_W01 [4/5] 1OS_W04 [4/5] 1OS_U07 [3/5]
Understands the role of microorganisms in the production and decomposition of organic matter, in the flow of energy and in the circulation of elements in the soil as well as in the life of other living organisms, including humans [M02]
 1OS_W01 [4/5] 1OS_W04 [4/5]
Distinguishes zones in water reservoirs and lists the groups of microorganisms present in them, can characterize the air microflora [M03]
 1OS_W01 [4/5] 1OS_W04 [4/5]
Describes the mechanisms of the reaction of microorganisms to soil and water pollution and the behavior of organisms in a contaminated environment [M04]
 1OS_W01 [3/5] 1OS_W02 [3/5]
Knows methods of isolation of selected groups of microorganisms from soil, water and air and uses basic equipment in a microbiology laboratory Is able to work in a group and shows care for the equipment he uses during the experiments [M05]
 1OS_W01 [4/5] 1OS_U01 [3/5] 1OS_U02 [3/5] 1OS_K01 [3/5]
Form of teaching Number of hours Methods of conducting classes Assessment of the learning outcomes Learning outcomes
lecture [F01] 10 Formal lecture/ course-related lecture [a01] 
Activating method – educational games [b03] 
Screen presentation [c07] 
Working with a programmed textbook [d02] 
Self-education [f01] 
Individual work with a text [f02]  		course work M01 M02 M03 M04
laboratory classes [F02] 20 Exhibition [c01] 
Laboratory exercise / experiment [e01] 
Observation [e06] 
Practice-as-research [e08] 
Individual work with a text [f02]  		course work M01 M02 M03 M04 M05
The student's work, apart from participation in classes, includes in particular:
Name Category Description
Search for materials and review activities necessary for class participation [a01] Preparation for classes
reviewing literature, documentation, tools and materials as well as the specifics of the syllabus and the range of activities indicated in it as required for full participation in classes
Literature reading / analysis of source materials [a02] Preparation for classes
reading the literature indicated in the syllabus; reviewing, organizing, analyzing and selecting source materials to be used in class
Getting acquainted with the syllabus content [b01] Consulting the curriculum and the organization of classes
reading through the syllabus and getting acquainted with its content
Verification / adjustment / discussion of syllabus provisions [b02] Consulting the curriculum and the organization of classes
consulting the content of the syllabus, possibly in the presence of the year tutor or members of the class group, and, if necessary, reassessing the provisions concerning special conditions for class participation, e.g., space and time requirements, technical and other requirements, including conditions for participation in classes outside the walls of the university, classes organized in blocks, organized online, etc.
Determining the stages of task implementation contributing to the verification of learning outcomes [c01] Preparation for verification of learning outcomes
devising a task implementation strategy embracing the division of content, the range of activities, implementation time and/or the method(s) of obtaining the necessary materials and tools, etc.
Analysis of the corrective feedback provided by the academic teacher on the results of the verification of learning outcomes [d01] Consulting the results of the verification of learning outcomes
reading through the academic teacher’s comments, assessments and opinions on the implementation of the task aimed at checking the level of the achieved learning outcomes
Attachments
Module description (PDF)
Information concerning module syllabuses might be changed during studies.
Syllabuses (USOSweb)
Semester Module Language of instruction
(no information given)