ANIMAL BEHAVIOR, BIOLOGY 261

First Semester, Academic Year 2000-'01

Instructor: Raymond Heithaus

Office and telephone: Biology 202, ext. 5393

Office hours: T 3:00-4:00 pm, W 1:30-4:00 pm, Thurs. 9:00-11:00 am + by appointment

Text: Animal Behavior, Sixth Edition by John Alcock. Other readings from original literature will be assigned most weeks.

Date Topic/Event Assignment
Aug 28 The evolutionary approach to behavior Chapters 1, 2
Sept 4 The genetic basis of behavior Chapter 3
Sept 11 Developmental aspects of behavior: Gene-environment interactions Chapter 4
Sept 18 Nerve cells and behavior Chapter 5
September 21 Lecture by E. O. Wilson: Rosse Hall 7:30 PM  
Sept 25 The organization of behavior Chapter 6
September 29 First Hour Test  
Oct 2 Evolution revealed by pattern: communication as a model Chapter 7
October 10 Reading Day none
Oct 11-13 An adaptive approach to understanding behavior: communication as a model Chapter 8
Oct 16 Adaptive responses to predation risk Chapter 9
Oct 23 Adaptive feeding behavior Chapter 10
Oct 30 Dispersal and habitat selection Chapter 11
Nov 6-8 Reproductive behavior - a focus of selection Chapter 12
November 10 Second Hour Test  
Nov 13 Mating systems Chapter 13
Nov 20 Thanksgiving Vacation  
Nov 27 Parental care - elementary social behavior alternatives Chapter 14
December 1 Research Paper due  
Dec 4 Social behavior: an evolutionary paradox? Chapter 15
Dec 11 An evolutionary approach to human, social behavior: Final Course Evaluation Chapter 16
Dec 18 OPTIONAL FINAL EXAMINATION: December 18, 6:30-8:30 pm  

OVERVIEW AND STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

This course is an introduction to the general field of animal behavior, with a strong emphasis on the ecology and evolution of behavior. We will examine the basic mechanisms for variation in behavior among different species, including different perceptual and neurological systems. We will also consider the adaptive nature of behavior and the major categories of behavior in the natural world: habitat choice, feeding, avoiding predators, finding mates, and interacting with other individuals. Along with these topics we will explore the ways that questions about behavior are answered. You will be asked to read and evaluate original literature so that you have direct access to developments in the field of animal behavior.

Grading in Biology 261 will be based on the following:

30% Two Hour Tests

25% Weekly assignments. These may be short summaries and critiques of supplemental readings or brief reports on computer simulations. The readings or assignments will be provided in class, usually through the ERES system. Criteria for evaluation are available by clicking here.

20% Final Exam (Optional: if you choose NOT to take the final exam, then the final grade will be based on the other criteria, proportionately. If you choose not to take the final, you are allowed only two absences after the second hour test.)

15% A research paper on a subject of your choice (but with my approval!). This should be 10 - 15 pages long, and should focus on one or two central research papers, preferably where alternative conclusions have been published. One reference should be published within the last two years. The papers must be submitted with your analysis.

10% Attendance and participation in class discussions. More than three unexcused absences will result in point deductions.

Your responsibilities should be clear from these components of grading. Since about one-third of your grade is based on writing, please be sure to review the Course of Study for its statement on plagiarism. In particular, note that relying extensively on quotes or paraphrasing from a paper does not constitute a summary or interpretation of that paper.

POLICY ON EXTENSIONS: No extensions will be granted for the assignments listed above on the basis of conflicts with assignments in other classes; look at all your syllabi now and plan ahead for the semester. The only exception is for medical problems serious enough that you are consulting with the College or other professional health services.

DISABILITIES: If you have a physical, psychological, medical or learning disability that may impact your ability to carry out assigned course work, I would urge that you contact the Office of Disability Services at 5453. The Coordinator of Disability Services, Erin Salva (salvae@kenyon.edu), will review your concerns and determine, with you, what accommodations are appropriate. All information and documentation of disability is confidential.