Parasite Parade: An Integration of Microbiology and Parasitic Diseases

In this course students will be introduced to Medical Parasitology. Students will learn the types of relationships between organisms and how parasites are classified. Through slide presentations, video clips and discussion, students will learn common sources of transmission including biological vectors (insects) and methods of prevention. Students will learn associated diseases and their biological and socioeconomic impacts. 

Worksheets will be posted 24 hours before the class. Students may use the provided worksheet to record answers and take notes during the lesson. Classes begins with discussion of the homework questions. Each class will conclude with a short quiz on the day's lesson for review.  Homework is assigned during each class and should take approximately 15- 20 minutes to complete. The live session is 40 minutes and the independent assignments can be used to extend the learning time. 

Lessons will include images of parasitic infections including body tissue injuries.  Learners are encouraged to participate throughout the lesson. No prior knowledge is required and no equipment is needed.

Recordings will not be posted. Students and parents are welcomed to contact me directly with questions and feedback.

Class 1: Metazoa
In the first lesson students are introduced to Parasite-Host Relationships and multicellular parasites. Students will examine types of helminth worms, their life cycles, and methods of prevention. 

Class 2: Protozoa 
Lesson two continues with more multicellular worms and introduces unicellular organisms. This lesson will teach characteristics of protozoa and the brain eating amebae. 

Class 3: Flagellates. Lesson three will examine the mobility of flagellates. Students will learn the associated diseases and the impacts on community health and common ways of transmission. 

Class 4: Malaria. In the final lesson students will learn about Malaria including risk factors and current methods of intervention.  This class also discusses several ectoparasites not included in previous categories.