Key points
The Microbiology eLearning Series provides online training for public health laboratory professionals in the area of basic microbiology laboratory skills and procedures necessary to identify microorganisms from clinical specimens. Each course is comprised of interactive, concise content allowing for completion during open periods throughout the day. Job aids and laboratory exercises are included so participants may work with a supervisor/mentor to comprehend and perform proper microbiology techniques. The Microbiology Series includes five eLearning courses.
Basic microscopy
To function effectively in a microbiology laboratory, laboratorians must have a basic knowledge and understanding of the components, setup, procedures, and care and maintenance of a brightfield (compound) microscope. This eLearning course will instruct participants on the importance of a correctly set-up brightfield microscope for the identification of microorganisms.
Routine microscopy procedures
This eLearning course is designed to familiarize laboratorians with routine microscopy procedures used in the microbiology laboratory. Laboratorians will explore the required steps for a smear preparation as well as the requirements for preparing and interpreting the results of Gram stains, wet mounts, potassium hydroxide (KOH), and India Ink procedures.
Basic culture media
This eLearning course familiarizes laboratory professionals with basic culture media used in the microbiology laboratory. Laboratory professionals review and contrast the various culture medias, describe the process of streaking a plate, identify types of colonial morphology, and explain commonly encountered problems that occur with culture media.
Biochemicals and Gram-positive organism ID
This eLearning course familiarizes laboratory professionals with how to read a Gram stain, colonial characteristics, and biochemical tests used to identify Gram-positive microorganisms as well as commonly used testing algorithms. The course only covers aerobic microorganisms, those that grow in the presence of oxygen.
Biochemicals and Gram-negative organism ID
This eLearning course familiarizes laboratory professionals with how to read a Gram stain, colonial characteristics, and biochemical tests used to identify Gram-negative microorganisms as well as commonly used testing algorithms. The course only covers aerobic microorganisms, those that grow in the presence of oxygen.