BI-487 -- Biology Seminar

Syllabus & Schedule for Spring, 1999

Purpose or Objectives of the course:



Provide an opportunity for students to prepare a short presentation integrating one or more basic biological concepts into the framework of adaptation and diversity.


Expectations of Students:



1. Selection of specific topic for study within the broader subject area chosen for discussion that semester.
   
   
2. Consultation with the instructor at the beginning of the semester, discussing feasibility of topic selected and working out the general plan to be followed.
   
   
3. Survey of literature available and selecting information most appropriate.
   
   
4. Further consultation with instructor, preparation of an outline and bibliography.
   
   
5. Oral presentation of topic before the class. Will also prepare handout sheet(s) of outline and bibliography. Appropriate audio-visual materials should be used.
   
   
6. Following oral presentation, student should be able to handle questions concerning the topic in a satisfactory manner and direct the discussion session.
   
   
7. Presentation of a typed paper in acceptable form covering the same material orally presented.
   
   
8. Participation in class discussion of topics presented.
   



Course Content or Outline:



1. The instructor selected to direct the seminar for the semester will meet with the students enrolled and present a general outline of the suggested topics within the area and the sequence in which they are to be presented.
   
   
2. The instructor will discuss the philosophy of the area to be studied and outline the procedures he/she recommends be followed in the preparation of the oral and written reports. If the students are ready to select topics they may do so at the first weekly meeting. If not, they must do so by the second meeting.
   
   
3. With a maximum enrollment of 12 to 14 students, one presentation is all that may be required of students. The first few weeks of discussion may be directed by the instructor in order to allow the students speaking early in the semester time for presentation of their papers.
   
   
4. The instructor will evaluate the preparation, the oral presentation, the written report, and the level of participation in the on-going presentations.



Textbooks:



No text is required for the course.



Basis for Student Evaluation:



Course grades will be determined on the quality of student performance on preparation, oral and written reports, and class participation.

Relevant Links:

The following is a list of links useful to BI-487 students:

• PubMed