Essential Functions and Technical Standards Requirements

Purpose Statement:
All students in the Biotechnology program are expected to meet certain essential
functions/technical standards which are essential for successful completion of all phases of the program, and which reflect industry requirements and standards. The following technical standards represent the essential nonacademic requirements of the Biotechnology Program that a student must master to successfully participate in the program and become employable. To verify the students’ ability to perform these essential functions, students may be required to
demonstrate the technical standards/essential functions.

Meeting these technical standards does not guarantee employment in this field upon graduation. Ability to meet the program’s technical standards does not guarantee a student’s eligibility for any licensure, certification exam, or successful completion of the program.

 

Standard	Definition of Standard	Example(s) of Technical Standard
Critical Thinking/ Problem-Solving Skills	Gain the ability to measure, calculate, reason, analyze and synthesize, integrate and apply information as it pertains to a laboratory.	Read and comprehend relevant information in textbooks and scientific literature; identify problems related to laboratory results and determine appropriate course of action; apply safety precautions prior to use of chemicals and reagents; recognize errors and modify performance as needed; problem-solve unexpected observations or outcomes of laboratory procedures.
Interpersonal Skills	Ability to collaboratively work with all biotechnology students and program faculty in the classroom and student lab.	Interact appropriately with persons from a variety of social, emotional, cultural and intellectual backgrounds; employ basic conflict management skills. Demonstrate the ability to work independently maintaining composure and competence under stressful situations.
Communication Skills	Demonstrate effective written and oral communication or alternate methods in the primary language of the institution. This includes, but is not limited to, reading, following instructions, and other forms of communication.	Writing: The ability to communicate effectively in legible written form. Speaking: The ability to verbally communicate understandably in English. Reading: The ability to read, understand, and follow directions printed in English. Technology Use: Ability to use appropriate hardware and associated software, navigate Moodle and the
Mobility/Motor Skills	Possess manual dexterity and fine motor skills to perform safe and effective laboratory procedures.	Ability to manipulate small objects with fingertips or adaptive devices; bilateral use of hands or terminal devices that involves coordination and strength; ability to maneuver in the laboratory, around instruments, and in confined spaces. Movement includes utilizing shoulders, arms, and neck; bending; twisting the body; standing; reaching and grasping overhead, in front of the body, and down, prolonged standing or sitting.
Auditory Skills	Sufficient hearing to function in a laboratory setting.	Hearing: Demonstrate hearing ability with any type of auditory aid in order to follow verbal instructions; ability to hear alarms; ability to adapt (phone receivers, hearing aids, etc.)
Visual	Sufficient vision to function in a laboratory setting.	Visual: The ability to distinguish red color from yellow color; distinguish clear from cloudy; and see through a microscope. Must be able to discern primary colors and/or shades thereof; and differentiate shapes macroscopically and microscopically.
Behavioral Skills	Behave in a safe and professional manner in regards to appropriate dress and action required for a laboratory setting. Biotechnology students should be tolerant of a variety of environmental stressors and time management skills.	Wearing safety or other required PPE and approved clothing at all times while working in the lab, regardless of the tasks being performed. Work safely with potentially infectious organisms, samples, and other hazardous materials. Follow specific regulatory guidelines in the laboratory. Remain focused and alert in a fast paced, highly stressful (sometimes unpredictable) work environment.

 

Alamance Community College is committed to providing equal educational opportunities for students with documented disabilities. Students who require accessibility services or reasonable accommodations must identify themselves as having a disability and provide current diagnostic documentation to the Accessibility Services Office located in the Main Building, Room 233. All information is confidential. Please contact the Accessibility Services Coordinator for more information at 336-506-4130 or email at accessibilityservices@alamancecc.edu and notify your course instructor of your special needs, as appropriate. Students should initiate this process as soon as possible (prior to the start of classes and/or field experience).