The Biology Department has informally adopted a set of objectives for the biology major related to knowledge in the discipline, Independent Study, and a liberal arts education (see Objectives of the Biology Major). As one of three introductory courses, Bio 220 plays an important role in preparing you for further study in Biology and related majors. For those who ultimately pursue another major, this course will be valuable by examining one "way of knowing and understanding" our world, the objective of the College's distribution requirements.

1. Goals related to knowledge in the discipline

   In Bio 220 Introduction to the Biology of Cells, we will be studying life processes at the levels of cells and molecules. Together with the other introductory biology courses, this course will give you an opportunity to develop a broad knowledge of Biology. Our focus here will be on understanding the important biological principles and generalizations of cell biology, and its powerful methodologies. The knowledge gained in this and the other introductory courses will provide an essential foundation for more in-depth study in the major.

2. Goals related to Independent Study

   In addition, this course strives to nurture those skills needed for Independent Study and for life-long learning, as a scientist or otherwise. Starting in the introductory courses and throughout the biology curriculum, we will emphasize doing science, not just learning about it. In this way, each student should become intimately familiar with scientific methods of inquiry and the philosophy of science, and as you progress, you should become more confident and competent working safely in the laboratory. "Doing science" also requires that you read the scientific literature, which we will also practice in this course. Finally, you will gain some experience in designing and conducting independent scientific investigations.

3. Goals related to a liberal arts education

   Within the context of your larger education, this course also seeks to strengthen your ability to use relevant information to make reasoned decisions, to enhance your appreciation of science as a way of knowing, and to strengthen your ability to communicate effectively.