BIOL 301 - Communicating in Biology

3 Credit(s)

Gen Ed: CM
This course will introduce students to the numerous, discipline-specific modes of oral and written communication utilized in the biological sciences and provide a “communication toolbox” useful for future endeavors, including, but not limited to, upper-level STEM courses, graduate, technical and other post-baccalaureate studies, and their chosen profession. Although the course may have a theme (i.e. Adaptive Physiology in the Changing Environment) to facilitate discussion and the linking of various assignments, the primary focus of the course is the recognition, understanding, utilization, creation and public sharing of biological topics. Reading, discussion, and critique of peer-reviewed publications will provide students with an understanding of the principles and conventions of scientific writing while equipping students with skills to analyze the effectiveness of other modes of communication. Students will refine their speaking and writing skills through a series of writing assignments, class discussions, and visual and oral presentations throughout the semester while developing skills needed to communicate effectively and share biological concepts concisely and accurately in their future STEM courses and chosen profession.

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 151, BIOL 152, WAYS 101, WAYS 102, AND WAYS 103