BIOL W3990 - Readings in Cell Biology

Institution:

Columbia University in the City of New York

Subject:

Description:

Prerequisites: Cell Biology (3041/4041) and the permission of the instructor. The class size is strictly limited to 24 students. This is an advanced cell biology course that uses detailed discussion of the primary literature to understand fundamental cellular processes. The focus is on dissecting research papers to gain insight into the rationale behind specific experimental approaches, understand how experiments are performed and critically analyze the data and interpretations. We will start with an introduction to critical thinking and experimental design and then probe four sequential papers from a prominent research lab that all investigate the same biological process. In this way, students gain an understanding of the creative nature of laboratory research and see how a research project develop and diversifies. Course requirements: Students must read assigned sections of each paper prior to class and be prepared to discuss the experimental approaches, outcomes and interpretations. Students will participate in group discussions, small group activities and must present findings to the class. Assessment will be based on periodic assignments, a midterm take-home exam, a final exam and a folio that students will maintain to track their own progress and document their findings. Participation in class discussions will also contribute to the final grade.

Credits:

4.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.columbia.edu

Phone Number:

(212) 854-1754

Regional Accreditation:

Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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