BIO520-Syllabus

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This syllabus gives specific times for BIO520-001. BIO520-201 students may proceed at a slightly different rate, although assignments will be due at the same times. If section 001 students miss class, they should plan to watch the broadcast or videotaped lectures.

Minimum computer configuration for a distance learning student is:

Internet capable computer (Intel486 or comparable Mac)
Internet accessibility (computer microlabs or internet service provider)
Netscape Navigator 4.0 or Internet Explorer 4.0 or later
Telnet client (EWAN or Win95 Telnet)/FTP client (WinFTP minimun, CuteFTP or similar recommended)
Additional downloadable software will be needed as described

Grading: Grades will be based upon performance on assignments submitted on time. Each student will be expected to participate in the class project. Failure to participate fully in this project will result in a reduction in grade AND will prevent credit in the event of publication.

Attendance during lecture is not mandatory, but participation in lab sessions is mandatory for section 001 students. Net-discussion is mandatory for section 201 students. Students may collaborate on assignments in general terms, but they should individually complete each assignment. Exams are to be done individually.

You will have a simple assignment almost every week, except for exam and project weeks. This assignment will be the primary subject of that Friday’s lab meeting. The results are due at the beginning of the following class (Monday). You will lose 10 points each day late.

Each assignment is worth 10 points. The take-home exam is worth 30 points. The final exam is worth 40 points. The final project is worth 50 points. Grades will be no worse than the standard 90/80/70/60 scale, but I reserve the right to liberalize grades to achieve a distribution more typical of a graduate/undergraduate class.

Text: At this time, there is no text recommended for this class. Indicated readings will be put on reserve as indicated on the syllabus and in class. The biology in this class is covered best by: