Basic Microscopy: Microbiology Curriculum

Description

The microscope is an important diagnostic tool, used in laboratories, that allows you to view organisms too small to otherwise be seen. In order to accurately use the microscope, laboratory professionals must have a basic understanding of its parts and sections, care, maintenance, focus, and procedures for ensuring optimal illumination. This basic-level eLearning course will review the correct use and maintenance of the brightfield microscope, including troubleshooting commonly encountered problems.

Audience

This basic level course is designed for new or existing public health and clinical laboratory professionals, individuals with a science background who are entering or re-entering the microbiology field, or individuals needing training in basic microscopy principles and techniques. 

Accessibility

Course content is closed captioned, where applicable, and optimized for a screen reader.

Objectives

At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to:

• Identify the major components of the microscope and their function.
• Identify how to maintain a microscope.
• Discuss the role of Köhler illumination in microscopy.
• Describe the process to correctly focus on the appropriate field of view.
• Use the ocular micrometer to measure an object under the microscope.