What This Document Is
This is the official course syllabus for BIO 161: Principles of Evolutionary Ecology, offered at Widener University. It’s a foundational document outlining the structure, expectations, and logistical details for students enrolled in this core biology course. This syllabus serves as a contract between the instructors and students, detailing important policies and the overall academic journey through the semester. It’s designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the course before detailed study begins.
Why This Document Matters
This syllabus is essential for any student registered – or considering registering – for BIO 161. It’s particularly useful during the course selection process to understand the scope and demands of the class. Throughout the semester, students should refer to it for clarification on grading, assignments, and important dates. Understanding the course’s organization upfront can significantly improve academic performance and reduce confusion. It’s a critical resource for planning and staying on track.
Common Limitations or Challenges
While this syllabus provides a detailed roadmap for the course, it does *not* contain the actual lecture materials, readings, or assignments themselves. It outlines *what* will be covered, but not *how* it will be covered in detail. It also doesn’t offer specific solutions to problems or examples of completed work. Access to the full syllabus is required to understand the specifics of each topic and assignment.
What This Document Provides
* A clear course description outlining the central themes and objectives.
* Instructor contact information and office hours.
* A week-by-week schedule of topics to be covered, referencing associated readings.
* Information regarding assessment methods, including quizzes and exams.
* Details on course policies related to attendance, participation, and academic integrity.
* An overview of the core areas of study: Evolutionary Ecology of Living Organisms, Biological Evolution, and Evolutionary Ecology of Communities and Ecosystems.