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BIOL120 – Microbiology Applications
Portfolio Project Directions and Rubric
This Portfolio Project is worth 10% of your overall grade.
Completing this assessment will help you to meet the following:
Course Outcomes
• Identify characteristics and types of common microorganisms.
• Examine modes of transmission and methods for preventing the spread of microorganisms.
• Explain treatment of infection disease: antimicrobial medications and bacterial resistance
• Categorize infectious diseases of body systems of current epidemiological concern.
Institutional Outcomes
• Information Literacy and Communication – Utilize appropriate current technology and resources to locate and evaluate information needed to accomplish a goal and then communicate findings in visual, written, and/or oral formats.
• Relational Learning – Transfer knowledge, skills, and behaviors acquired through formal and informal learning and life experiences to new situations.
• Thinking Abilities – Employ strategies for reflection on learning and practice in order to adjust learning processes for continual improvement.
• Quantitative and Scientific Reasoning – Follow established methods of inquiry and mathematical reasoning to form conclusions and make decisions.
• Community and Career – Participate in social, academic, and professional communities for individual growth and to function as a citizen of a multicultural world.
Scenario
The CDC has designated certain diseases as notifiable diseases. That means, if a local health department confirms a case for one of these diseases, they MUST notify the CDC. This helps the CDC better understand the disease-specific to its epidemiology.
These diseases are broken up into two categories: Notifiable Infectious Diseases (i.e., Legionellosis) and Notifiable Noninfectious Diseases (i.e., Carbon monoxide poisoning). Data associated for both these disease groups is available to the public through the CDC.gov website, through the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, and are associated with the MMWR series (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report). For this project, you will conduct research on one of the notifiable infectious diseases chosen from a list provided by your instructor.
As a healthcare professional, it is important to be familiar with pathogens of current epidemiological concern. For these organisms, you should be aware of their common characteristics, modes of transmission, etiology/pathology, prevention, treatment, and epidemiology.
For this project, imagine that you work for the local health department and need to present an update on one of the CDC’s notifiable infectious diseases at a local town hall meeting concerning a pathogen of current epidemiological concern. You are asked to create a PowerPoint presentation with a voiceover that includes key information related to your chosen pathogen of current epidemiological concern.
Additionally, you will locate and research incidence data of your chosen pathogen for two separate years: The most recent full year and 5 years prior from today. For example, let’s say it’s January 2022. You would be researching the incidence data from 2021 (the most recent full year) and 2017 (5 years prior).
After collecting the data, you will provide a brief analysis of your findings.
Directions
1. You will be assigned a pathogen by your instructor. Based on your instructor assigned pathogen, create a 4-6-minute PowerPoint presentation with voiceover. The presentation must consist of a minimum of 7 slides and be supported by at least 3 scholarly references.
2. Comment and provide constructive feedback on two of your peers’ presentations.
3. Complete a reflection.
Deadline
Deliverable items for the Portfolio Project will be required at different points during the course. Details for each submission are included below in the Deliverable Descriptions.
Deliverable Descriptions
Module 2: Topic Selection
• Due date – refer to your tracking calendar.
• To acknowledge the pathogen you’ve been assigned, in at least 150 of your own words, discuss what you’re looking forward to learning about your pathogen.
Module 3: Reference Selection
• Due date – refer to your tracking calendar.
• Provide at least three references that will be used to research your topic. These references should include information relevant to the pathogen or the disease it causes and be submitted in APA format.
• Once you’ve chosen three references you think are suitable for this project, submit them to your instructor for approval.
Module 4: Research Questions
• Due date – refer to your tracking calendar.
• Research the following questions and submit your responses in a PowerPoint presentation. Organize information over 4-5 slides.
o Explain the basic characteristics associated with the organism: type of microbe and morphology and reproductive biology. Include an image of the organism.
o Describe aspects of the organism’s etiology and pathology:
Etiology: Mode of transmission, portal of entry and exit, infectious dose, and key virulence factors.
Pathology: Tissue targeted by the pathogen, Signs/symptoms, prevention/treatment.
• Submit your PowerPoint to your instructor for feedback (voiceover is not necessary at this point in the project).
• After you submit your PowerPoint to your instructor, you will post the same PowerPoint to a designated discussion board, where classmates will evaluate and provide comments/feedback on your presentation.
Module 5: Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) Data Collection and Analysis
• Due date – refer to your tracking calendar.
• Use supplied excel file to collect incidence data from CDC.gov
o Notifiable Infectious Disease Data Tables
o Access’ WONDER Weekly Tables of Infectious Diseases’
o Utilize the ‘Change Year/Week’ button to locate correct data sets
o Record incidence for ‘U.S. Residents’ for each week, for your assigned 2 separate years
• Create a 2-line graph to display data. The graph needs a title and an axis labeled.
• Data Analysis:
o Describe the incidence rate trend.
o Compare and contrast the 2 years of incidence data. If a difference is present, explain possible reasons for those differences.
Module 6: Portfolio Project Final Submission
• Due date – refer to your tracking calendar.
• Update your PowerPoint presentation to incorporate instructor feedback on research questions, the MMWR data collection/analysis, as well as voiceover. Your final presentation should contain the following:
o Your name, the title of this course, and the topic title
o The required research and data in a clear, easy to follow, and read format (font size at least 10 point)
o Pictures or graphics as appropriate (with informal citations).
o Professional language with no spelling or grammatical errors
o A reference slide written in APA format
o Your PowerPoint presentation should consist of 7 slides total, including your cover and references slides.
• Upload your Portfolio Project to the Institutional Outcome in your ePortfolio listed below. Use the following naming convention: BIO120 – Portfolio Project: Microbiology Application
o Information Literacy and Communication – Utilize appropriate current technology and resources to locate and evaluate information needed to accomplish a goal and then communicate findings in visual, written, and/or oral formats.
For directions on how to upload your project to your ePortfolio, please see Student Resources in Blackboard on the navigation pane.
Module 7: Project Presentation
• Due date – refer to your tracking calendar.
• Incorporate feedback from your instructor to present a final product. Present the information to classmates via a provided discussion board for peer review.
• Respond and provide constructive feedback to two of your peers’ presentations
o Using the portfolio project grading rubric as a guide:
Provide objective feedback on the presentation design, writing mechanics, spelling or grammatical issues, as well as the resources used.
Provide pertinent feedback on the ease of understanding information provided in the presentation for a potential patient.
Provide feedback on the thoroughness of the content of the presentation.
Module 8: Reflection
• Due date – refer to your tracking calendar.
• For the final piece of your Portfolio Project, you will reflect upon the course and how it directly relates to your future workplace. Your reflection should be a minimum of 500 words and be in APA format.
For this reflection:
a) Reflect on how this project allows you to demonstrate KSBs associated with institutional outcomes.
b) Analyze the importance of this project to your future career.
c) In your own words, reflect on how this project meets the Program and Institutional outcomes as stated on the first page.
For specific grading information, please refer to the Portfolio Project Grading Rubric
BIOL120 – Portfolio Project Grading Rubric
Criteria Exceeds Expectations Meets Expectations Needs Improvement Points
Content – Organism Research
45 points 40-45 points
All questions were answered in their entirety, information is clear, thorough, accurate, and presented in an interesting format/manner. The project demonstrates a strong understanding of the pathogen, infection, treatment, and associated epidemiology 32-39 points
One to two required elements were not covered clearly or thoroughly; information was not accurate or lacked depth and/or was not presented in an overall interesting manner. The project demonstrates limited understanding of the pathogen, infection, treatment, and associated epidemiology 0-31 points
Three or more required elements were not covered clearly or thoroughly; information was not accurate or lacked depth. The project demonstrates minimal understanding of the pathogen, infection, treatment, and associated epidemiology
Content – MMWR & Analysis
20 points 14-20 points
Data was fully and accurately gathered. The graph to display the incidence data was appropriately created, titled, and labeled.
All analysis questions were fully answered. 11-13 points
Data was fully and accurately gathered. The graph to display the incidence data was not appropriately created, titled, or labeled.
All analysis questions were fully answered. 0-10 points
Data not fully and accurately gathered. The graph to display the incidence data was not appropriately created, titled, or labeled.
The data analysis was incomplete.
Presentation Design,
Writing Mechanics,
and Citations
15 points 13-15 Points
Zero to one spelling or grammatical errors are present. The information is communicated effectively to the audience.
The presentation is professional, easy to read, flows well, and contains informative graphic content. The project clearly demonstrates the ability to communicate findings in visual and written formats.
At least three reputable sources are properly used and cited in APA format. The student demonstrates the ability to utilize appropriate current technology and resources to locate and evaluate information 11-12 points
Two to three errors in spelling or grammar making the content difficult to understand at times or may be confusing for the audience. The information is mostly communicated effectively with patients.
The presentation is not easy to read in places or contains little informative visual content. The project partially demonstrates the ability to communicate findings in visual and written formats.
Fewer than three reputable sources are properly used and cited in APA format. The student demonstrates partial ability to utilize appropriate current technology and resources to locate and evaluate information. 0-10 points
Four or more errors in spelling or grammar making the content difficult to understand or confusing for the audience. The project is not communicated effectively with patients.
The presentation is difficult to read, does not flow well, and/or contains little informative visual content. The project minimally demonstrates the ability to communicate findings in visual and written formats.
Fewer than two reputable sources are properly used and cited in APA format. The student does not demonstrate the ability to utilize appropriate current technology and resources to locate and evaluate information
Presentation
20 points 14-20 points
The presentation is easily understood, engaging, and falls within the 4–6-minute time limit. Information is spoken clearly, and words like “um” are not used. The project clearly demonstrates the ability to communicate findings in an oral format. 11-13 points
The presentation is easily understood, but there are some issues with pronunciation or words like “um.” The presentation may last fewer than three or more than five minutes. The project mostly demonstrates the ability to communicate findings in an oral format. 0-10 points
The presentation is understood, but issues with pronunciation or words like “um” make it difficult to understand at times or disjointed, or the speaker does not demonstrate interest or appears uncomfortable. The presentation may last fewer than three or more than five minutes. The project does not demonstrate the ability to communicate findings in an oral format.
Instructor Comments: Total Points:
BIOL120 – Portfolio Project Reflection Grading Rubric
Criteria Exceeds Expectations Meets Expectations Needs Improvement
Reflection/
Articulation
85 Points 77-85 points
Through insightful discussion, the student demonstrates a clear understanding of the connection between this project, institutional outcomes, and future careers. 60-77 points
Through discussion, the student demonstrates an understanding of the connection between this project, institutional outcomes, and future careers. Connections are present but lacking in clarity. 0-59 points
The student does not clearly present an understanding of the connection between this project, institutional outcomes, and future career.
Writing Mechanics,
and Citations
15 points 13-15 Points
Zero to one spelling or grammatical errors are present. Submission is in APA format. 11-12 points
Two to three errors in spelling or grammar making the content difficult to understand at times or may be confusing. Or, there is an error in APA format. 0-10 points
Four or more errors in spelling or grammar making the content difficult to understand. Or submission is not in APA format.
Instructor Comments: Total Points:
Here’s a detailed guideline on how to tackle this BIOL120 – Microbiology Applications Portfolio Project effectively:
🔴 Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily! 🔴
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Your Portfolio Project
This Portfolio Project is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your knowledge of notifiable infectious diseases and their epidemiology. Below is a breakdown of each module and what is expected.
📌 Module 2: Topic Selection
📅 Due Date: Refer to your tracking calendar.
✅ What to Do:
- Confirm Your Pathogen: Your instructor will assign you a notifiable infectious disease.
- Research the Basics: Do a quick background search on the pathogen to understand its significance.
- Write a 150-Word Reflection: Explain why this disease is important and what you hope to learn from researching it.
- Submission: Submit your reflection to your instructor.
✅ What is Expected?
- A well-thought-out response showing curiosity about the pathogen.
- Proper grammar and clarity in your writing.
📌 Module 3: Reference Selection
📅 Due Date: Refer to your tracking calendar.
✅ What to Do:
- Find Three Scholarly Sources: Use reputable databases like CDC.gov, PubMed, or peer-reviewed journal articles.
- APA Formatting: Ensure your references are cited correctly in APA format.
- Submit for Approval: Your instructor must approve your sources before you continue.
✅ What is Expected?
- High-quality sources from credible institutions.
- Proper APA citation formatting.
📌 Module 4: Research Questions
📅 Due Date: Refer to your tracking calendar.
✅ What to Do:
- Create a PowerPoint (4-5 slides) answering the following:
- Basic Characteristics of the Organism:
- Type of microbe (bacteria, virus, etc.).
- Morphology (shape, size, structure).
- Reproductive biology.
- Etiology and Pathology:
- Etiology: Mode of transmission, portal of entry/exit, infectious dose, virulence factors.
- Pathology: Symptoms, targeted tissue, prevention, treatment.
- Include an Image of the Organism.
- Basic Characteristics of the Organism:
- Post on Discussion Board for Peer Review.
- Submit to Instructor for Feedback.
✅ What is Expected?
- Well-organized slides with clear and concise information.
- Visual elements (diagrams, images) to aid understanding.
- Proper citations on slides.
📌 Module 5: MMWR Data Collection and Analysis
📅 Due Date: Refer to your tracking calendar.
✅ What to Do:
- Use the CDC’s Data Tools to Find Incidence Data for Your Disease:
- Find two years of data:
- Most recent full year (e.g., 2024).
- Five years prior (e.g., 2019).
- Find two years of data:
- Create a 2-Line Graph:
- One line for each year’s incidence data.
- Include a title and labeled axes.
- Write a Brief Data Analysis:
- Describe trends and patterns.
- Compare and contrast the data for both years.
- Provide possible explanations for any changes in incidence.
✅ What is Expected?
- Accurate data collection and well-labeled graph.
- Insightful analysis with logical explanations for trends.
📌 Module 6: Portfolio Project Final Submission
📅 Due Date: Refer to your tracking calendar.
✅ What to Do:
- Revise Your PowerPoint Based on Feedback: Ensure it incorporates:
- Research findings.
- MMWR data and analysis.
- Voiceover recording (4-6 minutes).
- PowerPoint Should Include:
- Cover Slide (Name, Course Title, Topic Title).
- Research and Data (at least 5 slides).
- Graphics and Images (properly cited).
- Professional Formatting: Clear font (minimum 10pt).
- References in APA Format.
- Upload to ePortfolio with Proper File Naming:
- BIO120 – Portfolio Project: Microbiology Application.
✅ What is Expected?
- A complete, professional PowerPoint with all required sections.
- A polished voiceover (clear speech, engaging tone).
- Zero spelling or grammar errors.
📌 Module 7: Project Presentation
📅 Due Date: Refer to your tracking calendar.
✅ What to Do:
- Submit Final Presentation for Peer Review.
- Provide Feedback to Two Peers:
- Comment on presentation design.
- Check for writing/spelling/grammar errors.
- Evaluate ease of understanding for a general audience.
- Assess content depth and accuracy.
✅ What is Expected?
- Thoughtful and constructive feedback to classmates.
- A well-received final presentation.
📌 Module 8: Final Reflection
📅 Due Date: Refer to your tracking calendar.
✅ What to Do:
- Write a 500-Word Reflection (APA Format) Addressing:
- How this project helped you demonstrate institutional outcomes.
- Importance of the project for your future career.
- How this project connects to the course learning objectives.
- Submit on Time.
✅ What is Expected?
- Clear, thoughtful reflection on the learning process.
- Proper APA formatting.
💯 Grading Breakdown (How to Score Maximum Points!)
✔ Content – Organism Research (45 points)
- Answer all research questions thoroughly and accurately.
- Present information in an engaging, clear format.
- Demonstrate strong understanding of the pathogen.
✔ MMWR Data & Analysis (20 points)
- Accurate data collection from CDC sources.
- Well-labeled graph with a clear title and axes.
- Thoughtful data analysis explaining trends.
✔ Presentation Design & Writing Mechanics (15 points)
- Zero or minimal spelling/grammar errors.
- Easy-to-read slides with visuals.
- Citations properly formatted in APA style.
✔ Reflection (10 points)
- Insightful and well-structured reflection.
- APA formatting followed correctly.
✔ Peer Review Participation (10 points)
- Provide detailed, helpful feedback to two classmates.
✅ Final Tips for Success
✔ Start Early: Give yourself time to research, design slides, and record your voiceover.
✔ Use the Rubric: Ensure all project components meet “Exceeds Expectations.”
✔ Keep it Professional: Avoid slang, use academic language, and proofread.
✔ Engage Your Audience: Speak clearly and confidently in your voiceover.
✔ Ask for Feedback: Get input from classmates or your instructor before finalizing.
By following this guide, you will create a high-quality Portfolio Project that showcases your microbiology knowledge and presentation skills!