Teaching Interests
I teach several courses within the Biology program at CSULB. Some of these courses are focused on data analysis (e.g., Biostatistics, Computer Modeling in Biology), but other courses are focused on data collection and interpretation. For example, I teach courses in Field Methods in Biology and various classes and seminars in Marine Biology. See the subsections below for more details about each course.
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Biostatistics (BIOL 260)
This is a first course in data analysis and a prerequisite for most biology-related majors at CSULB. Although this is a difficult course, it is a useful one because we cover most of the common techniques that working scientists use to analyze data. I teach Biostatistics in the fall, but this course is offered every semester. |
Field Methods in Biology (BIOL 457/557)
This course provides students with training in the various methods and techniques that ecologists use to collect data in the field. We also focus on sampling theory, study design, and data analysis. Importantly, we spend a lot of time getting outside and collecting data. There is no better way to learn the "tools of the trade" than to roll up your sleeves and collect the data yourself. |
Computer Modeling in Biology (BIOL 563)
This course focuses on the use of mathematical models to better understand biological phenomena. We explore both the utility and pitfalls of models by working through detailed biological examples. A major emphasis of this course is on constructing and interpreting simple, biological models using the programing language R. This course is aimed at graduate students, but if you are an advanced undergraduate and are interested in taking the course, feel free to contact me. |
Undergraduate Directed Research
(BIOL 296/496) This is a course where undergraduates participate in research projects (BIOL 296; credit / no credit), or lead a research project (BIOL 496; letter grade) while under the supervision of the lab. |
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