Terence McGonigle
Department of Biological Sciences, Idaho State University
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BIOS 315/315L Introduction to Biometry
Spring 2004

Lecture List
A. Course Objectives

1. What are the objectives of the course?
The course will strive to teach understanding and practical skills for statistical and other numerical calculations in the biological sciences.
2. What role will the WebCT space play in the achievement of course objectives?
WebCT will be used as a communication forum through mail. WebCT will be a source of information for students on grades.
3. What are the prerequisite skills or knowledge students will need to succeed in the course?
Basic mathematical skills will help, but lectures and practical classes will revisit all general methods according to student need.
4. What type of learning activities will be most effective in order to achieve the objectives?
Student contact will be through lectures and practical classes. Assignment questions will also be used.
5. What grading criteria will be utilized to assess student performance, class participation, and attendance?
The overall grade for the course will combine scores for participation in laboratory classes, assignments, a mid-term, and a final. Some credit will be given for correct working in incorrect answers.

B. Sources and Materials
1. What is the classroom setting and what is the role of this setting in the achievement of course objectives?
All teaching will be through direct contact with a chalkboard backdrop. This format will allow the lecturer to explain calculations effectively.
2. What materials, supplies, books, and other materials will learners need in order to succeed in this course?
No text is required. The recommended text is Zar J.H. Biostatistical Analysis. Fourth Edition. 1999. Prentice Hall. Handouts will be supplemental to chalkboard notes. No computers will be used in the classroom. The understanding of the basic calculations will be approached in this class by use of paper, pencil, and pocket calculator. All students must bring a pocket calculator to each class. Examples of suitable calculators will be given in the first class so that students can purchase a unit in time for the second week.
3. How will the course be developed to assure consistency from course to course?
The course Introduction to Biometry BIOS 315 315L provides an introduction to numerical methods in biological sciences. Biometry 605 605L follows naturally from Introduction to Biometry, because the graduate course presents computer-based computational systems for statistical analyses.
4. What are the course title, number, location, start dates, and meeting times?
Introduction to Biometry BIOS 315 and 315L meet weekly for two hours starting at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., respectively, on Friday in room LS 237. Students must attend the full four-hour session each week. The first class is on January 16, 2004.