Fall 2006

SCIE 614
Classic Studies in Animal Behavior

Powzyk,Joyce Ann

09/11/2006 - 12/16/2006
Wednesday 07:00 PM - 10:00 PM

MB&B Conference Room

The MB&B Conference Room is located in Hall-Atwater, Room 230

Our focus is on the major contributors to the field of animal behavior. We will discuss the selection pressures that shape animal behavior and whether the study of primate social and mating systems can provide insight into human behavior. Other questions include: why do certain animal species exhibit altruistic behavior and others do not? What are the limiting resources for male and female animals and why do they behave so differently? This is but a sampling of the subject to be covered in a course that is specifically designed for students to gain a clearer understanding of the mechanisms that drive the natural world around them. We will commence with the early pioneers in ethology who were the first to describe the behavioral repertoire of a single species and progress onto the more current, comparative approach, whereby two animals are compared for a more fine-tuned analysis. Biological jargon will be defined as original research is discussed.

We will read selected chapters from Richard Maier, Comparative Animal Behavior, and selected scientific papers.

Students are expected to participate in classroom discussion, take a midterm and a final exam, and write a paper that will be presented to the class.

Previous coursework in biology is not required.

A syllabus for this course is available at:
http://www.wesleyan.edu/masters/courses/Fall_2006/Course%20Syllabi/syb_scie614.html


Joyce Powzyk (B.S. Principia College; Ph.D. Duke University) is visiting assistant professor of biology. She is author with C.B. Mowry of "The Feeding Ecology of Indri indri." In, Gould, L and Sauther, M.L. (eds.) Madagascar's Lemurs: Ecology and Adaptation on an Island of Diversity, Springer, New York, (in review) and is author and illustrator of a variety of books and posters about animals and plants. Click here for more information about Joyce Powzyk.

ENROLLMENT INFORMATION

Consent of Instructor Required: No

Format: Seminar

Level: GLSP Credits: 3 Enrollment Limit: 18

Texts to purchase for this course:
Richard Maier, COMPARATIVE ANIMAL BEHAVIOR (Allyn & Bacon), Hardcover

READING MATERIALS AVAILABLE AT BROAD STREET BOOKS, 45 BROAD STREET, MIDDLETOWN, 860-685-7323

Register for Courses



Contact glsinquire@wesleyan.edu to submit comments or suggestions. 
Copyright Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, 06459

How to Register

Current Term

      Fall 2011

Upcoming Terms

       Spring 2012

Previous Semesters