UO students: search and register for SLP courses on Duckweb by finding the subject code “SLP.”
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Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 | Spring 2019
Fall 2018
General Education Courses
BI 132 Introduction to Animal Behavior
We will explore behaviors found in a variety of animals and mechanisms behind them, how they develop, their evolutionary history, and what functions they might serve. Hands-on activities allow us to ask questions about animal behavior and design experiments to search for answers. Examples will be used to illustrate concepts in animal behavior and serve to develop an appreciation for the many interesting things that animals do to survive and reproduce. We will also examine the methods with which scientists study these behaviors. Students will better understand how science works and become comfortable evaluating scientific information, a skill required by all people whether or not they pursue a career in the sciences.
Debbie Schlenoff, CRN 11018, MW 1400-1520, 282 LIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
CH 114 Green Product Design
This course illustrates how chemists play a central role in developing the knowledge and tools for society, to meet our basic needs for new materials, energy, clean water and food and to address the important challenges of protecting human health and the environment. This course focuses on integrating green chemistry with product design, journalism and communications and sustainable business practices and takes a systems approach to designing greener consumer products. You will gain the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to analyze technical challenged facing you today and in the future.
Julie Haack, CRN 11328, TR 1600-1750, 220 HED, 4 credits
Syllabus
PHYS 152 Physics of Sound and Music
Practical course for students with interest in how musical sounds are created by various instruments and how they travel, are recorded, synthesized, and optimized by auditorium design. Specific families of instruments (e.g. woodwinds, brass, and strings) will be discussed. The concepts of standing waves, overtone series, and enclosures (e.g. instruments) to amplify and focus these waves form the basic foundation of the course. Other topics include the mechanics of how human hearing and voice work and musical temperament and pitch. Descriptions involve elementary math and simple algebra, though Fourier analysis is described and used in a purely utilitarian fashion. Many in-class demonstrations will be done to manifest the physical concepts that have been discussed in lecture.
Dean Livelybrooks, CRN 14993, TR 1400-1550, 100 WIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
PHYS 161 Physics of Energy and Environment
A practical course for non-science majors to introduce the concepts necessary to understand and work with energy. We will learn what energy is, how it is transformed from one form to another (as, for example, from fossil fuels to electrical energy) and how it is used. We will be mostly interested in the relationship of energy to our everyday lives (other than eating), the environmental consequences of global energy consumption, and what this means for the future of our lifestyles. There is no question that major changes in our energy consumption habits will be forced upon us in our lifetimes. We will explore why this will happen and what some of the alternatives might be. The first part of the course will develop a reasonably thorough understanding of energy: mechanics (physics of motion), electricity and magnetism (most versatile form of energy) and thermodynamics (movement of heat). We will learn about mechanical power based on engines (heat, combustion, electrical or solar energy). The last part of the course will deal with our energy lifestyles. We will study the source of and use of fossil fuels, generation of electricity and nuclear energy. The environmental consequences (air pollution, global warming) of our energy use will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on practical examples and in-class demonstrations. Fundamental issues of physics will be discussed with a minimum of mathematics, but we will use high school algebra . Some calculations will be required for homework and some of the exam problems, so a standard calculator will be needed (but a special scientific calculator is not required).
Raghuveer Parthasarathy, CRN 14995, TR 1000-1150, 100 WIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
PHYS 181 Quantum Mechanics for Everyone
Quantum mechanics (QM) is the theory of nature at its most fundamental level. Although the fruits of our understanding of QM, such as lasers and computers, are familiar technologies, the inner working of atoms and the behavior of electrons and photons are anything but familiar. This course treats the most important ideas of QM, using only basic algebra and geometry. Students will learn about the experiments that led to the creation of QM, explore the theoretical ideas of QM, and learn about modern applications such as quantum cryptography and quantum teleportation. The course employs active, inquiry-based teaching methods to improve creative and critical reasoning. Students will learn through hands-on in-class activities, including experimenting with lasers.
Michael Raymer, CRN 14996, TR 1400-1550, 350 WIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
Courses For Science Majors
BI 370 Ecology
This is an introductory course focusing on the scientific study of organisms’ interactions with abiotic and This is an introductory course focusing on the scientific study of organisms’ interactions with abiotic and biotic components of the environment. This course will include general principles of ecology and contemporary applications, as well as methods used in studying ecological interactions.
Tobias Policha, CRN 11084, MWF 900-950, 116 ESL, 5 credits
Syllabus
BI/CHEM/GEO/PHYS 407/507 Seminar: Teaching Science
We will read, discuss, and apply a variety of techniques from science education literature to improve science education. Students will be active participants in the exploration of scientific teaching. Using concepts and information introduced in class, students will develop and teach an activity to be used in an undergraduate science course.
Elly Vandegrift, CRN 16172, W 0900-1050, B040 PSC, 2 credits
Syllabus
CAS 409 Practicum Science Literacy Program Scholar
In this practicum, Undergraduate Science Literacy Program Scholars will help co-teach general education science courses with direct supervision from a faculty mentor. Students will be paired with a faculty mentor and Graduate SLP Fellow in a teaching team. Students will attend a weekly science education journal club to explore theories of science education and help develop and implement classroom activities and assessments to support student learning.
Required journal club attendance
Elly Vandegrift, CRN 11299 R 9-950, 217 LISB, 2 credits or CRN 11300 F 13-1350, 217 LISB, 2 credits
CH 221 General Chemistry I
Chemistry is the study of matter and the changes that it undergoes. It is a science that is central to our understanding of the natural world and it serves as a foundation for all other scientific disciplines. The General Chemistry sequence, beginning with CH 221, is designed for science majors and pre-professional students, and provides an introduction to the experimental and theoretical foundations of chemistry. Upon successful completion of this first course in the sequence, students will have an understanding of the basic scientific measurement system, chemical calculations, the components of matter, the use of formulas and equations in relation to chemical calculations, the major classes of chemical reactions, heat changes associated with chemical reactions and atomic structure. Interwoven throughout the sequence will be an emphasis on development of the problem solving skills fundamental for success in future science courses.
Concurrent CH 227 or 237 recommended.
Prerequisite: MATH 111
Deborah Exton, CRN 11337, TWRF 1100-1150, 150 COL, 4 credits
Deborah Exton, CRN 11338, TWRF 1500-1550, 150 COL, 4 credits
PHYS 204 Introductory Physics Lab
In this continuation of PHYS 204, students will engage with a practical exploration of the principles studied in general-physics lecture. Students apply measurement and analysis methods to experiments in mechanics, waves, sound, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics.
Billy Scannell, CRN 15020-15027, Multiple dates/times offered, 13 WIL, 2 credits
Syllabus
PHYS 412 Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism
In this course on classical electricity and magnetism, students will use the tools of vector calculus to solve for the static and dynamic properties of electromagnetic fields. This course includes time-independent current distributions (magnetostatics), magnetic properties of matter, and initial coverage of fully time-dependent problems. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze complex problems cutting across multiple domains of physics, communicate physics concepts orally and in writing, and understand principles and concepts of electricity and magnetism.
Stephanie Majewski, CRN 15054, MWF 1100-1150, 110 WIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
Winter 2019
General Education Courses
ASTR 123 Galaxies and the Expanding Universe
Astronomy 123 introduces students to the structure and evolution of our galaxy and the Universe. Galaxies similar to the Milky Way, and those much different, are studied, leading to an understanding of the position of our galaxy in the vast Universe. The course includes an introduction to the theories of the forces of nature as they pertain to this study. The place of humankind in the Universe is examined. The search for extraterrestrial life is discussed.
Elsa Johnson, CRN 26998, TR 1400-1550, 100 WIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
BI 123 Biology of Cancer
We tend to think of cancer as a single disease that affects many different tissues or organs. However, cancer is really a collection of over one hundred diseases that show various clinical manifestations, but have similar underlying causes and effects: the normal genetic controls of cell division malfunction, allowing a cell to undergo unbridled proliferation. Students will explore the underlying genetic causes of cancer; factors, including lifestyle choices that increase cancer risk; the detection and diagnosis of cancers; and contemporary therapies to mitigate or cure cancers. Finally, the detection and diagnosis of various cancers, how our natural immune defenses respond to cancerous cells, and the therapies to cure or mitigate cancer, both traditional and experimental will be explored.
Alan Kelly, CRN 21710, MWF 1500-1550, 282 LIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
BI 140 Science, Policy, and Biology
Students will assess how policy decisions affect the types of research that can be conducted, and the potential ramifications for human health and the environment. The course will be topical, based around items of particular interest in the news. Topics may include stem cells, genetically modified foods, human genetic testing, trans-fats, spread of E. coli in the food supply, the basis of scientific controversies, or other current biological issues.
Nicola Barber, CRN 26748, TR 1000-1120, 240A MCK, 4 credits
Syllabus
J 410/510 Science Communication Strategies
Science Communication Strategies is designed for students from all disciplines and is designed to engage students with a wide variety of science interests. This course examines how science is communicated through popular media, outreach, and institutions of research. Students will be doing hands on science communication projects, learning how to communicate complex scientific topics in different formats to different groups. No science or communication background required.
Hollie Smith, CRN 27005, MW 1200-1350, 229 MCK, 4 credits
Syllabus
Courses For Science Majors
BI 390 Animal Behavior
Animal behavior is devoted to understanding the variety of behaviors that contribute to biological diversity on our planet. In this course, students study the foundational concepts and principles of animal behavior and use case studies and examples to illustrate and develop an appreciation for the many interesting things that animals do to survive and reproduce. Our primary focus will be the adaptive significance of behavior. We will explore how behavior contributes to an individual’s survival and the successful transmission of an individual’s genes across generations.
Prerequisite: BI 213 or BI 253
Debbie Schlenoff, CRN 21790, MW 1200-1320, 101 LIB, 4 credits
Syllabus
CAS 409 Practicum Science Literacy Program Scholars
In this practicum, undergraduate science students will explore the concepts and theories behind Scientific Teaching. Students will develop inclusive classroom activities and assessments to support student learning in a science course. Upon completion of this practicum, students may have the opportunity to co-teach a Science Literacy Program course under the direct supervision of a faculty mentor to continue developing and applying teaching skills.
Elly Vandegrift, Lisa Eytel, and Blake Parris, CRN 21975, W 1100-1150, 350 WIL, 2 credits
Syllabus
GEOL 418/518 Earth and Environmental Data Analysis
This course offers tools-based instruction in data analysis for earth and environmental scientists. Topics include descriptive statistics, visualization, uncertainty analysis, hypothesis testing, regression, time series, and directional data.
Prerequisite: MATH 246 or 251
Edward Davis, CRN 23265, MW 0830-0950, 123 PAC, 4 credits
Syllabus
PHYS 205 Introductory Physics Lab
In this continuation of PHYS 204, students will engage with a practical exploration of the principles studied in general-physics lecture. Students apply measurement and analysis methods to experiments in mechanics, waves, sound, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics.
Billy Scannell, CRN 25676-25683, various times, 13 WIL, 2 credits
Syllabus
PHYS 252 Foundations of Physics I
This term focuses primarily on the physics of oscillations and waves, with specific applications to mechanics, sound, and optics. Other topics include fluids and strength of materials. The course uses a variety of active learning techniques for instruction. This is the second term of the first-year, calculus-based, introductory physics sequence. This sequence is intended for all students seeking a major in the sciences or in engineering.
Co-requisite: MATH 253 or equivalent
Prerequisite: PHYS 251
Ben McMorran, CRN 25684, MWF 1000-1050, 100 WIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
Spring 2019
General Education Courses
ASTR 121 The Solar System
Over the past 20 years there has been an explosion in our understanding of the contents, formation and evolution of the Solar System, mainly due to numerous NASA missions and probes. The study of the characteristics of the other planets has provided tremendous insight and understanding of Earth and the changes under our influence. This course, specifically designed for non-science students, will explore the science behind our exploration of the Solar System providing students with a background to be able to make informed choices as citizens and voters on issues related to our environment and the future of science research.
Elsa Johnson, CRN 30857, MW 1500-1620 and F 1500-1550, 100 WIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
BI 150 The Ocean Planet
Much marine life is easily observed from shore – if one pays attention. Using field trips to the Oregon coast early in the course, and then facilitated use of field guides and discussion, the course will introduce the general foundations of marine biology, and help students discover the natural world, and their own ability to absorb it and learn about it, even if they are not scientists. Students will work in groups to develop case studies on topics such as oil spills and oil spill response, marine reserves, management of fisheries, and oceans and human health. Students will learn foundations of marine biology and scientific reasoning and methodology and information that may also be relevant to solving environmental problems.
Michelle Wood, CRN 30923, MW 1400-1520, 111 LIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
BI 160 From Brains to Intelligent Machines
A course designed for non-science majors to understand how the brain acquires information and drives behavior, and how scientists and engineers attempt to replicate these abilities in computers and artificial intelligence systems. Students will be introduced to the process of scientific reasoning and use those skills to discuss the neural processes behind learning, memory, decision-making, and thinking. Parallels will be made between the way the brain and computers process information and perform computations. Students will grapple with questions such as: What happens if our intelligent machines become too intelligent? What are the implications to society of intelligent machines and technologies for interfacing brains and machines?
Santiago Jaramillo, CRN 30926, MW 1600-1720, 145 STB, 4 credits
Syllabus
PHYS 153 Light, Color, and Vision
Open to non-science majors, this course is designed to help students gain an understanding of light and color, their nature, how they are produced, and how they are perceived and interpreted.
Billy Scannell, CRN 34757, TR 1000-1150, 100 WIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
TA 452 Improvisation for Science Communication
Do you struggle talking about your research in front of an audience? In this course STEM students will develop their science communication skills in fun and relaxed environment. Students will learn how to apply improvisational techniques from the world of acting to become more comfortable sharing their scientific scholarship or research with any group.
Theresa May, CRN 36489, TR 1400-1520, 202 VIL, 4 credits
Courses for Science Majors
BI 322 Cell Biology
The cell is an amazing, complex and dynamic unit of life. This course explores various aspects of how eukaryotic cells carry out their many basic functions while interacting with their environment. Students learn how defects at the cellular level lead to disease states, examine the primary literature, and consider experimental design and analysis. By the end of the course, students can model the dynamic nature of cellular processes, explain the function of organelles, communicate how defects at the cellular level lead to disease states and could be targeted for specific therapies, develop testable hypotheses based on provided information, design experiments to test hypotheses, and analyze and interpret provided data.
Nicola Barber, CRN 30966, TR 1400-1520, 112 LIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
BI 374 Conservation Biology
Conservation biology is a multidisciplinary, applied science devoted to preserving the remaining biological diversity of our planet. Students study the foundational concepts and principles of conservation biology and use case studies and examples to illustrate these principles in practice. In this course, examine the causes and consequences of diversity losses; the genetic and evolutionary consequences of small populations; population viability modeling and other tools; and approaches to conserving diversity including reserve design, corridors, captive breeding, species reintroductions, and conservation laws.
Debbie Schlenoff, CRN 20983, MW 1200-1320, 112 LIL, 4 credits
Syllabus
CAS 409 Practicum Science Literacy Program Scholars
In this practicum, undergraduate science students will explore the concepts and theories behind Scientific Teaching. Students will develop inclusive classroom activities and assessments to support student learning in a science course. Upon completion of this practicum, students may have the opportunity to co-teach a Science Literacy Program course under the direct supervision of a faculty mentor to continue developing and applying teaching skills.
Elly Vandegrift, Lisa Eytel, and Blake Parris, CRN 21975, W 1100-1220, 147 WIL, 2 credits