Time Schedule:
David L. Stokes
BIS 490
Bothell Campus
Study of special topics in interdisciplinary arts and sciences. Prerequisite: BIS 300.
Class description
BEAUTY AND THE BEASTS: COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH ON THE AESTHETICS OF BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY AND IMPLICATIONS FOR CONSERVATION
Explores the connections between life forms and human aesthetics in a collaborative research format. Students and the instructor will work together to investigate the aesthetic appeal of different life forms for people, and consider the implications for conservation of biodiversity. In addition to class readings and discussion, each student will pursue a focused research question addressing a specific aspect of the general topic area using any of several possible methodologies, from library and web research to surveys. The results of these focused research efforts will be synthesized, leading to an opportunity for contribution to the wider body of knowledge on this subject. The ultimate goal of the course is to produce a preliminary draft of a publishable research paper that will contribute significantly to the understanding of human biodiversity preferences.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Discussion and collaborative development of ideas, research agenda, methods, analysis, and communication of results.
Recommended preparation
Senior standing or permission of instructor.
Course Requirements/Expectations: The student must have a curiosity about the diversity of life and human responses to it. Students will need to be prepared to commit time and motivation in order to do a large amount of careful reading, including primary scientific research articles. In and outside of class you will need to possess the capacity to take the initiative, accomplish work independently and collaboratively, as part of a team.
Class assignments and grading
