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Biology Teaching and Learning Centre · ANU College of Science and Medicine
Big Questions in Biology is a course about important issues in biology: understanding how biology is carried out, how biology intersects with other disciplines (both scientific and non-scientific) and how it is applied and communicated. Major concepts such as evolution, biodiversity, climate change and the impact of new biological approaches, such as genetic modification, will be discussed and debated. Students are encouraged to critically think about biological concepts in a world-view context, ask questions and challenge ideas, and communicate ideas through writing and discussion. This means that there are no “right” and “wrong” answers for the assignments, but instead students will need to consider the material presented in lectures and apply what they have learned to their views of biology and biologists.The aims of the course are to: - introduce current hot topics in biology in the context of both science and society - encourage students to critically think about the process of investigation - provide opportunities for students to develop information literacy, peer review, critique and communication skills about biological subjects - gain an understanding of where biology fits in the broader context of our society - gain skills to effectively evaluate and communicate information related to new discoveries of “big questions” in biological research. Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately.
Blogs and responses to blogs
Learning outcomes 2, 3, 4
Critical thinking writing pieces
Learning outcomes 2, 3, 4
Workshop assessments: Peer-review; climate change.
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Oral presentation
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Final reflection essay
Learning outcomes 2, 3
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including: - Face-to face component which consists of up to three 3 x 1 hour lectures per week (total 36 hours; 12-week semester) and 10 workshops (~1 per week x 2 hour workshops) of group interaction and activities with guest speakers (total 20 hours). - Approximately 74 hours of self directed study which will include preparation for lectures, required readings, writing, and other assessment tasks. Students are expected to actively participate and contribute towards discussions during the workshops. Other Information Please email rsb.studentadmin@anu.edu.au to request a permission code to enrol in this course.
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