Prospectus

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Biology

Course
2015-2016

Tags

EES, S, GPH

Admissions requirements

None.

Description

A good understanding of biology is fundamental for understanding many of the challenges we face with regards to environmental sustainability and public health. This course aims to give students insight in important biological concepts at different levels of biological organization, including genetics, cell structure, physiology and whole organism responses.

Next, we will discuss four important systems which are key in global public health and/or ecosystem health, including the endocrine system, the immune system, respiratory system and the cardiovascular system. Case studies from both the field of human and ecosystem health will be used to demonstrate how these systems can be affected.

Course objectives

Content:

  • Students can define and discuss key concepts in biology at different scales, ranging from molecular to individual level

  • Students can describe important biological systems, including the endocrine system, the immune system and the cardiovascular system

Skills:

  • Students can evaluate the strengths and weaknesses in scientific studies (e.g. published work, government reports, or peer-projects)

  • Students can examine the scientific literature and highlight future areas of research

Timetable

Once available, timetables will be published here.

Mode of instruction

The main mode of instruction will center around lectures and case studies (related to topics in GPH and EED) in biology. In addition, students are required to complete individual and group assignments. Lab session are likely a part of the course. Attendance is compulsory for students.

Assessment

Assessment will occur through two exams, one individual assignment (lab report), and a group assignment (review on a topic). In addition, participation in class will determine part of the final grade.

  • Midterm 15%

  • Group Report 15%

  • Group Presentation 15%

  • Course Participation: 15%

  • Final Exam: 40%

Midterm and Exam: The midterm and exam will consist of a combination of multiple choice, short-answer and essay questions.

Group report and presentation: Student will write a report on topic related to biology and EES or GPH. This includes a detailed literature review and a future outlook section. You will provide a summary of the report in a classroom presentation in week 7.

Course participation: You will be assessed throughout the block on your class participation. And on lab reports.

Blackboard

There will be a Blackboard site available for this course. Students will be enrolled at least one week before the start of classes.

Reading list

Biology: A Global Approach Global Edition by Neil A. Campbell, Jane B. Reece. ISBN: 9781292008653

Registration

This course is open to LUC students and LUC exchange students. Registration is coordinated by the Curriculum Coordinator. Interested non-LUC students should contact course.administration@luc.leidenuniv.nl.

Contact

Dr. Thijs Bosker, t.bosker@luc.leidenuniv.nl