Biology

An introduction to research methods used in biological sciences including: 1) the literature search, reading and evaluating scientific literature, scientific writing, and incorporating previous literature into a proposal for research; 2) an introduction to commonly used statistical analyses focusing on an understanding of when specific common tests are appropriate and how to interpret them and utilize appropriate statistical software; 3) a very brief introduction to applications of mathematical modeling such as calculus to investigating biological problems. A grade of C- or better in BIOL-150 or BIOL-155 is required and sophomore standing, or permission of the instructor (One course.)

An introduction to the structure and function of the mammalian nervous system. This course will examine the circuits, cells, and molecules that direct behavior. Emphasis will be given to how the nervous system is built during development, how it changes through the lifetime, how it functions under normal behavior, and how it is affected by injury and disease. Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and CHEM 140.(One course.)

An investigative approach to learning fundamental concepts in biology from organisms to ecosystems. Concepts will include: the process of scientific inquiry, mechanisms of evolution, the evolutionary history of biological diversity, and fundamentals of ecology. Labs will emphasize problem-based or inquiry-based learning. Lectures will combine traditional format with problem-posing and questioning. core Curridulum: Scientific Inquiry. (One course.)