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BIOL 111

Biology 111: Integrative Biology I

Credit Hours: (3)

Designed to teach students how to develop an integrative framework upon which to ask questions, engage in discussions, and explore topics around a broad, central theme. A theme-centered approach aims to unify the disciplines of biology by changing the mindset that biology is learned as disconnected sub-fields. This course provides students with an introduction to and overview of integrative biological concepts, with a focus on developing a research mindset and applying analytical skills to solve problems. Students in this course will explore foundational topics from across biology including evolution, genetics, cell biology, organismal biology, and ecology, and spend time in both the lab and field gaining hands-on experience with a wide range of ideas and information from across the discipline of biology.

 

Content 

Integrative Biology I will teach students how to integrate specific micro- and macroscale topics, including: 

  • Evolutionary concepts such genetic variation and mutation, natural selection, species concepts, and principles of taxonomic organization, 
  • Cell/micro concepts such as cell theory, transcription/translation, common organelles and the principles of cellular reproduction
  • Organismal concepts such as metabolism, homeostasis, and basics of organ system function
  • Ecological/systems concepts such as population growth and dynamics, species interactions, and food webs

 

Course objectives

Upon the successful completion of this course, students will also be able to:

  1. Define integrative biology;
  2. Recognize a biological problem that requires an integrative approach;
  3. Explain why the biological problem requires an integrative approach;
  4. Apply the key disciplines required to solve the biological problem; and
  5. Analyze data from the key disciplines that address a solution to the biological problem.

 

Assessment Measures

  • Weekly topic quizzes (1-7):  5% each (35% total)
  • Lab assignments (1-5): 5% each (25% total)
  • Topic investigation essay: 15%
  • Group grant proposal: 15%
  • Group grant proposal presentation: 10%

 

Other Course Information:

None

 

Review and Approval

March, 2023

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