GLY 5655 TOPICS IN PALEOBIOLOGY: READING THE LITERATURE

SPRING 2015, 12-1 p.m., PC 349A

1 credit

SYLLABUS

 

Course Description

A discussion group reads and critiques current literature related to paleontology, and meets with visiting paleobiology speakers for the E&E Seminar to discuss their research. We will read recent literature of our choosing, preferably something to help students in their own research. In the case of the seminar speakers, students will read a paper by the seminar speaker before they meet with them. The role of discussion leader will rotate among the members of the group (including the instructor), and the discussion leader for the next meeting will choose the article to read. Each week we will have a short discussion on what to read the next week, and the reference or link will be emailed to everyone. Grading is solely on the basis of attendance and reading the assigned articles (see chart below).

 

Course Description

Students will learn the best methods to read the literature critically for their research. 

 

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to critique scientific methods and interpretations of data for paleobiological studies. The readings will also increase knowledge in their research areas.

Instructor

Dr. Laurel Collins, collinsl@fiu.edu, (305) 348-1732. Office hours: AHC5 377, MF 9:30-11 or by appointment.

 

Course Outline

Date Topic Discussion Leader
Jan. 9 Organizational meeting
Jan. 16 Discussion group Collins
Jan. 23 Meet with seminar speaker Prof. Kelley
Jan. 30 Discussion group Lamela
Feb. 6 Discussion group Verlaak
Feb. 13 Meet with seminar speaker Prof. Hawkes
Feb. 20 canceled - E&E Graduate Symposium
Feb. 27 canceled -  instructor out of  town
Mar. 6 Discussion group Sider
Mar. 13 Spring Break – University closed  
Mar. 20 Meet with seminar speaker Prof. Mann
Mar. 27 Discussion group Collins
Apr. 3 Discussion group Lamela
Apr. 10 Meet with seminar speaker Prof. Mitchell
Apr. 17 Discussion group Verlaak
Apr. 24 Discussion group Sider

Textbook 

Readings from the current literature.

Class Format and Grading

Every week before coming to class or meeting with the seminar speaker, students should read the assignment carefully and be prepared to discuss it. Grades are based on the following scale:

A Miss 1-2 meetings OR neglect to do 1-2 readings
B Miss 3 meetings OR neglect to do 3 readings
C Miss 4 meetings OR neglect to do 4 readings
D Miss 5 meetings OR neglect to do 5 readings
F Miss 6 meetings OR neglect to do 6 readings