PRUTE: A Model for Online Delivery of Majors and Nursing Microbiology Laboratories during COVID-19 Pandemic Emergency

Due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), universities were restricted from gathering students for in-person instruction, especially teaching hands-on techniques in microbiology laboratory courses. This report describes how a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI) transitioned to remote learning for microbiology laboratories through a model, PRUTE, involving the preparation of media and bacteria; recording of videos of techniques on manipulating bacteria; uploading of videos, photos, and assignments presenting organisms on media; telling students appropriate due dates; evaluation of students. Safety issues are emphasized, and pitfalls are described. The PRUTE model is not designed to replace in-person instruction in microbiology, as the skill set of manipulation and aseptic technique is necessary. The use and implementation of the model give one approach for faculty to provide microbiology laboratory instruction and teach skills to students during emergencies, with limitations.