Introduction to Evolution and Ecology

ECTS Credits

10 ECTS

Level of Study

Bachelor

Teaching semester

Autumn.

This course has a limited capacity, enrolment is based on application. Application deadline is Thursday in week 33 for the autumn semester. Please see this page for more information: https://www.uib.no/en/matnat/53431/admission-courses-limited-capacity 

The time of the first lecture/orientation meeting can be found in the schedule on the course website or on the Mitt UiB learning platform.

It is mandatory to attend the first lecture.

Place of Instruction

Bergen

Objectives and Content

The subject gives a basic introduction to how the process of evolution can be utilized to achieve biological insight: how adaptation operates in biological entities, genetic algorithms, evolution of life and macroevolution, population genetics, human evolution. The course does also contain basic population dynamics, the development of the field of biology, and ends with areas for application for evolutionary principles. The mathematical contents of the course is linked to population dynamics, population genetics, behaviour, and natural selection.

Learning Outcomes

Goals for learning:

• to give students an introduction to biological reasoning, with emphasis on evolution and adaptation
• to give students a foundation for a unified understanding of the biological disciplines taught in later bachelor courses
• to show that the present philosophy of biology has come about through scientific research
• to give a basic introduction to the application of mathematics in biology
• to give students a basic understanding of evolution and human biology
• to train students in critical evaluation of texts
• to give students experiences in writing, cooperation and portfolio evaluation

Recommended Previous Knowledge

The course is based upon MAT101 or MAT111 which can be read in parallel.

Forms of Assessment

Portfolio assessment

Grading Scale

The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest passing grade, grade F is a fail.

Reading List

The reading list will be available within June 1st for the autumn semester and December 1st for the spring semester.

Course Evaluation

Students will evaluate the course in accordance with the quality assurance system at UiB and the Department.

Programme Committee

The Programme Committee is responsible for the content, structure and quality of the study programme and courses.

Course Administrator

The Faculty og Mathematics and Natural Sciences - Department of Biological Sciences has the responsibility for the course and study programme