Instructor Class Description

Time Schedule:

• Summer Quarter 2008
• Autumn Quarter 2008

James Ha
PSYCH 200
Seattle Campus

Comparative Animal Behavior

Research methods and findings of comparative animal behavior, their importance to an understanding of human behavior; rationale for study of behavioral differences/similarities between animal species, behavior viewed as part of adaptation of each species to its natural habitat. Not open for credit to students who have taken PSYCH 300.

Class description

This course is designed to give you an understanding of the way in which evolution, and natural selection in particular, shapes behavior. Social behavior receives special attention because evolutionary theory makes unique, and often counter﷓intuitive, predictions in this area. The course strongly emphasizes concepts over rote memorization of facts. Our goal is to teach you how to apply an evolutionary approach to the study of the behavior of animals, including humans.

Student learning goals

General method of instruction

Recommended preparation

Class assignments and grading

There will be three 50 minute, 100 point exams. Each exam covers one﷓third of the course and the three are weighted equally. Questions are based on lectures, text readings, discussion sections, and key points from films. The exam format is short answer and list. Grades will be based on the accuracy, organization, conciseness, and legibility of your answers.

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Modified:August 20, 2008