BIOL 1520 - Integrated Concepts in Biology II (with Lab)

This is one of two introductory courses in biology. The other course is BIOL 1510, and students may take these courses in either order.

Goals: This course is an introduction to biological concepts and principles at and above the level of the organism. The weekly laboratory emphasizes core competencies of the process of science, the interdisciplinary nature of modern biology, data interpretation, quantitative skills, communication in multiple formats, and experience with large databases.

This course is using a new approach to teaching introductory biology that is based on the first principles of learning: students learn best when they construct their own knowledge, when their learning builds upon previous knowledge, and when knowledge is relevant to students’ lives.

Content: Broad topic areas in this course include evolution, information transmission, the cell as the fundamental unit of life, homeostasis, and emergent properties, and they will be explored from the organismal to ecological system levels.

Taught: Spring term

Prerequisites: None

This course is open to first year students only. Exceptions are made by permission of the instructor. First first-year students who transferred enough credits that they have sophomore status are welcomed, but will need to get permission of the instructor and request a prerequisite override through Workday. Second and third year students planning to pursue majors or programs that require this course should contact the instructor and request a prerequisite override.

Note: Students must concurrently register for a lecture and a corresponding 0-credit lab section of this course.

Credits: 4