Villanova Resources (Library, etc.)
Non-Textbook Readings for Courses in Biolog y for Non-Scientists
How to Contact Dr. Webb:
E-mail: jacqueline.webb@villanova.edu
Phone: 610-519-4807
Office: Mendel G24B
Laboratory Instructors -
Biology Dep't. Office - 610-519-4830
| Syllabus and Course Policies |
Goals and Philosophy of Core Biology
The Core Biology program has been especially designed for liberal arts (non-science) majors. Students will learn about the basic biological concepts, in both lecture and lab, so that they can understand how biological discoveries have been made and how they are made every day. In addition, students will be given an opportunity to write about biology and evaluate the results and implications of scientific discoveries as presented in the reputable media. This course is also designed to help students to develop or to enhance their: quantitative skills, observation and visualization skills, curiosity, and skills of deductive reasoning (and the validity of hypothesis testing) in the context of both the lecture and the laboratory components of the course. Further, it is hoped that upon completion of the Biology Core Program, students will be able to:
- have an understanding of the process of scientfic investigation and view science as valid way of thinking about and studying the natural world
- understand how the analysis and interpretation of newly acquired data can change the way we look at the natural world.
- be able to reason deductively based on observation and collection of data in its broadest sense.
- be able to use acquired skills and knowledge to use at least those scientific information resources that are available to the general informed public.
- know how to appropriately challenge and interpret information and participate in informed debate.
- know how to make intelligent, defendable choices in the voting booth given the complexities of scientific issues and their wider significance in our society and for the planet.