Learning About Foodborne Pathogens: Evaluation of Student Perceptions of Group Project Work in a Food Microbiology Course |
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| Authors: | Mark S Turner |
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| Institution: | Author Turner is with Univ. of Queensland, School of Land, Crop and Food Sciences, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Australia. Direct inquiries to author Turner (E-mail: ). |
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| Abstract: | ABSTRACT: This study examined the experiences of students in an active learning group work exercise in an introductory food microbiology course involving the study of foodborne pathogens. Small groups were required to access, analyze, and present information regarding a single food poisoning bacterium. The presentations contained features and epidemiological information of the pathogen and also a review of a research journal article and a real food poisoning outbreak report involving the pathogen. Analysis of responses from a questionnaire that allowed direct comparisons to be made with other published group work studies revealed that this exercise was a positive learning experience. In particular, students noted improvements in communication, interaction, information acquisition, and organizational skills. |
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