BIOL 106 - Biodiversity of California

Units: 3; Breadth Area: GE-B2
This course covers biodiversity of California from populations, to species, and communities in different ecoregions of California. Topics covered include terrestrial and aquatic biomes, the unique species that live there, threats to biodiversity, and scientific research on California species.

Possible Instructional Methods: Entirely Online.
Grading: A-F or CR/NC (student choice).
Breadth Area(s) Satisfied: GE-B2 - Lower Division Life Sciences
Course Typically Offered: Fall & Spring

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Describe the major biomes of California, e.g. locations, species, human effects, etc.;
Explain using concrete examples how scientists in California apply the scientific method to study populations under threat and to study species in California;
Demonstrate correct use of the scientific method by analyzing an experiment and organizing the steps of the scientific method;
Identify what makes a species invasive, dominant, keystone, or otherwise critical to an environment using examples from the California biota;
Articulate the levels of biodiversity and ecology using examples from terrestrial or aquatic ecosytems of California;
Use the scientific method framework to analyze historical and current scientific data;
Learn to use virtual media tools to communicate and discuss scientific principles related to California biodiversity.

B2. Life Sciences Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate knowledge of scientific theories, concepts, and data about the life sciences;
demonstrate an understanding of scientific practices, including the scientific method; and
describe the potential limits of scientific endeavors, including the accepted standards and ethics associated with scientific inquiry.