Welcome to the course
Welcome to this course on the principles of microbiology, antimicrobial resistance and susceptibility testing. This course has been developed by experts in the field of microbiology.
Over the next 4 weeks, we will look at the microbes, including classifications, structure, and their various roles. Antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance will be discussed in detail, with an overview of common antimicrobial agents, PK/PD and increasing efficacy in antimicrobial use. The drivers of AMR will be explored, as well as co-resistance and the emergence of ‘superbugs’. Then the final week will focus on antimicrobial susceptibility testing and the laboratory.
In this first week, we will introduce the concepts of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) and discuss the basic concepts of microbes, including classifications, structure, and their various roles.
A glossary for this course can be found in the downloads section below.
The best learning happens between peers, so don’t forget to engage with other learners in the comments section and discuss the material.
Please note this course is not tutor facilitated.
If you are new to FutureLearn courses, click here for a guide on how to engage with the course. Learners can also upgrade to have unlimited access to the course for as long as it exists on FutureLearn and receive a certificate of achievement.
Before we begin, we would like to remind you of FutureLearn’s Code of Conduct which should be considered before participating in the discussions throughout this course.
This course has been approved by The Royal College of Pathologists at a level of 8 credits. The RCPath CPD approval process is in line with the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges standards and criteria for CPD activities framework guidance. Reciprocity has been agreed between colleges/faculties for all approved activities.
Please note all who submit their details to the RCP to claim CPD, agree that FutureLearn may need to share their data, including their progress on the course, with RCP for the purposes of auditing/offering CPD.
Enjoy
We hope you find this course useful and enjoy learning about the principles of microbiology! We value your input and encourage you to let us know your opinions in the comments as you go along.
