Evolution across the Curriculum: Microbiology

• Main Authors: Alita R. Burmeister, James J. Smith
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: American Society for Microbiology 2016-05-01
• Series: Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education
• Subjects: Microbiology; evolution; biology education reform; applied microbiology
• Online Access: http://jmbesubmissions.asm.org/index.php/jmbe/article/view/988

An integrated understanding of microbiology and evolutionary biology is essential for students pursuing careers in microbiology and healthcare fields. In this Perspective, we discuss the usefulness of evolutionary concepts and an overall evolutionary framework for students enrolled in microbiology courses. Further, we propose a set of learning goals for students studying microbial evolution concepts. We then describe some barriers to microbial evolution teaching and learning and encourage the continued incorporation of evidence-based teaching practices into microbiology courses at all levels. Next, we review the current status of microbial evolution assessment tools and describe some education resources available for teaching microbial evolution. Successful microbial evolution education will require that evolution be taught across the undergraduate biology curriculum, with a continued focus on applications and applied careers, while aligning with national biology education reform initiatives.