Engaging students in clinical bacteriology: A fresh look

Frequently there is a disconnectedness, either perceived or actual, between theoretical principles and laboratory practice in science education and this holds true for clinical microbiology where traditionally knowledge is delivered in ‘chunks’ in a lecture format with the misguided belief that students have to know ‘everything about everything’. This preoccupation with content delivery often leaves no time for active class discussion or reflection. Moreover, laboratory classes are treated as add-ons to the process, rather than an integrated part of the whole learning experience. In redesigning our units (subjects) we have bridged the gap between the theory and practice of clinical bacteriology. In doing so, we have seen a transformation in the learning experiences of our students and in the way we teach.