Our overarching goal for educating
our students majoring in biological sciences is to inspire them to want to
discover and understand the natural world. In the process of achieving this goal, we expect our
students to acquire not only facts and concepts but also skills and
perspectives. We hope that our
learning goals will both prepare our students for a variety of career objectives
and supply them with the tools to become lifelong learners in the ever-evolving world of biological sciences.
Learning Goals
I. To acquire the
appropriate factual and conceptual knowledge that provides students with a
foundation to further their education and career in the areas of life science
or health science. Students will be able to demonstrate basic knowledge
(e.g., identify, define, explain, etc.) of the concepts, practices, and principles that
comprise the biological sciences.
II. To develop data
analysis and statistical reasoning skills that prepare students for a society
increasing reliant on the use of data and information. Students will be able to
interpret/evaluate patterns in data presented in tables, figures, and graphs as
well as be able to organize, summarize, and present data.
III. To develop the ability to use scientific reasoning as
embodied by the structured process commonly known as the scientific method to
empower students with the ability to generate and refine knowledge. Students
will be able to evaluate and apply the practice of science.
IV. To develop
critical thinking and problem-solving skills appropriate to prepare students
to evaluate, synthesize, and generate knowledge that provides them with a
competitive advantage to adapt to an evolving, global, and knowledge-based
society. Students will be able to demonstrate application of higher order thinking (e.g., classify, diagnose,
evaluate, synthesize, hypothesize, etc.). Students will develop an
understanding of not only the connections within biology but also the
connections between biology and other scientific disciplines.
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School of Environmental and Biological Sciences 
