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BIOL 0036 - Introduction to Mammalogy

http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/biol-0036/

Catalog Description DESCRIPTION IS HERE: Advisory: Eligibility for ENGL 1A Hours: 54 lecture Description: Introduction to the general ecology, evolution, and physiology of mammals, with an emphasis on species of northern California. Topics include: identifying characteristics, local species, ecological relationships, human interactions, and behavioral, structural, and physiological adaptations. Recommended for general education students or other majors interested in mammals. (CSU) Units 3 Lecture-Discussion 54 Laboratory By Arrangement Contact Hours 54 Outside of Class Hours Course Student Learning Outcomes Outline the key characteristics and evolutionary adaptations found in mammals. Identify and describe examples of regional representatives of the major taxonomic groups. Investigate the ways in which humans and other mammals interact with each other and their environment. Course Content Outline 1. Introduction to the science of mammalogy (scientific method, key historical figures, etc.) 2. Evolution and diversification of early mammals (theory of evolution, forms of selection, environmental conditions influencing mammal evolution, etc.) 3. Characteristics of modern mammals (anatomy, physiology, etc.) 4. Diversity and classification of modern mammals with examples of species found in northern California 5. Mammal behavior and communication (senses, intelligence, vocalizations, etc.) 6. Mammalian reproduction (mate choice, sexual selection, parental care, etc.) 7. Ecology of mammal populations (life-history patterns, population dynamics, hybridization, speciation, etc.) 8. Conservation of mammals (global trends, strategies, etc.) 9. Relationships between humans and other mammals (disease transmission, domestication, husbandry, game management, etc.) Course Objectives Course Objectives Course objectives are linked to items listed in the course content outline (in parentheses) 1. Outline general steps of scientific discovery; distinguish between hypothesis, prediction, and theory (#1) 2. Synthesize the current understanding of mammal evolution and describe the major drivers of natural selection during that evolution (#2, #4) 3. List and describe the major characteristics of mammals that distinguish them from other groups (#3) 4. Identify the typical representatives of major taxonomic groups of mammals that can be found in northern California (#3, #4) 5. Analyze the unique aspects of mammalian anatomy and physiology; compare and contrast mammalian features with those of reptiles (#2, #3) 6. Evaluate the adaptiveness of unique behaviors exhibited by mammals such as primates, colonial mammals, dolphins, elephants, etc. (#5) 7. Compare and contrast the adaptiveness of the various mammalian reproductive strategies (#6) 8. Analyze the ecological roles of endangered mammal species to identify those characteristics that increase the risk of endangerment, and evaluate the effectiveness of current conservation efforts in addressing those risks (#7, #8, #9) 9. Investigate the degree of influence that humans have on other mammal species as well as the influence that other species have on humans (#9) Methods of Evaluation Classroom Discussions Essay Examinations Objective Examinations Projects Reports Reading Assignments 1. Read the chapter in the textbook on the evolution of mammals from therapsid reptiles and be prepared to discuss in class. 2. Read a published scientific paper about a topic, such as the complex hunting behaviors exhibited by pack animals, and be prepared to discuss the topic in class. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Write a 2-4 page paper about a mammalogy topic, such as the evolutionary adaptations exhibited by marine mammals or a life history account for a local mammal species. 2. Answer an essay question on an exam about a topic covered in class, such as comparing and contrasting the adaptive value of marsupial and placental reproduction. Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) Methods of Instruction Lecture/Discussion Distance Learning Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.