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Biology

  1. CCRI
  2. Biology
  3. Learning Outcomes
  4. Course Learning Outcomes

Course Learning Outcomes

BIOL-0600 Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology (1 credit)

 Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Confidently enroll in a college course with the study tools necessary to actively engage in learning.
  • Develop a personal calendar that includes committed study hours outside of the classroom to organize work, family, and school responsibilities.
  • Locate additional learning materials on-line.
  • Develop individual learning strategies for success in college level courses.
  • Solve basic arithmetic problems, calculate means, work with exponents, use the metric system, read tables and graphs.
  • Understand and use standard medical terminology.
  • Describe the biological hierarchy of organization and differentiate between tissues, organs, and organ systems.
  • Name and describe the basic principles of biology.
  • Understand the basic principles of chemistry: states of matter, atomic structure, chemical bonding, organic compounds.
  • Describe the organelles of a eukaryotic cell and the function of each; describe movement processes of a cell; describe the cell cycle and cellular reproduction.

BIOL-1000 Cell Biology for Technology (4 Credits)

 Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Display an ability to communicate, using proper biological vocabulary.
  • Apply the Scientific Method in the laboratory while demonstrating the ability to contribute effectively in cooperative work toward a common goal.
  • Demonstrate analytical and problem-solving ability in the laboratory through the use of measurement, graphing, and simple statistical analysis and be able to work in the lab maintaining an awareness of laboratory safety and biological/chemical hazards.
  • Accurately perform a common technical procedure according to written laboratory instructions (such as a Standard Operating Procedure or laboratory protocol) and show evidence of the ability to troubleshoot technical problems.
  • Describe several examples that illustrate the distinguishing characteristics of life and explain how the structure of a cell and its organelles allow the cell to exhibit each of the functions that characterize living organisms.
  • Compare and contrast the various kingdoms of life with regard to cellular structure, metabolism, and mechanisms of cellular reproduction, genetics and gene expression.
  • Describe the flow of genetic information at the intracellular level, from DNA to protein and its importance in drug development and production.
  • Discuss the societal impacts of recent changes in life science, medicine, and biotechnology.

BIOL-1001 Introductory Biology: Organismal (4 Credits)

 Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of the connections between genetics, evolution, ecology and biodiversity.
  • Classify and identify organisms and their diversity across the tree of life.
  • Explain the relationship between structure and function of organisms and their environment.
  • Implement the proper use of the scientific method by communicating scientific concepts, experimental results, and analysis of data.
  • Communicate and collaborate professionally in a group setting.
  • Credible sources and effectively communicate current topics in biology.

BIOL-1002 Introductory Biology: Cellular (4 Credits)

 Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Display an ability to communicate, using proper biological vocabulary, in both written and spoken English.
  • Demonstrate the ability to contribute effectively in cooperative work toward a common goal.
  • Students should show analytical and problem-solving ability in the laboratory through the use of measurement, graphing, and simple statistical analysis.
  • Students should be able to identify and integrate information from multiple sources through the use of the library and the Internet.
  • Students should be able to work in the lab and maintain an awareness of laboratory safety and biological/chemical hazards.
  • Students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the origin and diversity of life on Earth and the evolutionary progression toward more complex forms.
  • Students should be able to compare and contrast the various kingdoms of life with regard to cellular structure, metabolism, and mechanisms of cellular reproduction, genetics and gene expression.
  • Students should be able to discuss the societal impacts of recent changes in Life Science and related technologies.

BIOL-1005 Biology in the Modern World (4 Credits)

 Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Effectively communicate in English an understanding of basic biological terms, processes, and concepts to an informed lay audience.
  • Improve critical-thinking skills by accessing and evaluating biological information from a variety of sources to draw logical conclusions.
  • Develop problem-solving abilities through the proper use of scientific methods of experimental design and data collection, analysis, and graphing.
  • Develop the self-assessment, peer-review, and professional skills needed to function as a collaborative member of a scientific team.
  • Analyze current issues from a biological perspective to better understand ourselves, our interdependence with other species in our communities, and our impact on the natural ecosystems that sustain life.

BIOL-1006 Introduction to Evolution (3 Credits)

 Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Understand the role that geography played in the history of life.
  • Identify the many lines of evidence that support the theory of biological evolution.
  • Understand what an adaptation is and its value to both the individual and the population.
  • Understand the mechanism of Natural selection and other mechanisms that drive the evolutionary process.
  • Understand the species concept, how speciation occurs, and how species are maintained as separate entities.
  • Understand why the vast majority of all species that have ever lived became extinct.

BIOL-1007 Explorations in Biology  (4 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate analytical and problem-solving ability in the laboratory through the use of measurement, graphing, and simple statistical analysis while working safely as part of a group or individually..
  • Describe the characteristics and main structures of viruses, prokaryotes, and eukaryotes and identify potential health risks posed to humans.
  • Compare the four macromolecules that make up the cell at the molecular level and discuss the impact of food choices on nutrition and overall health.
  • Identify the four major tissue types and discuss their basic properties correlating structure with function.
  • Compare the eleven systems of the body and describe their basic functions and organs and discuss potential diseases that may develop and ways to prevent disease.
  • Apply the concept of biological evolution to explain the origin of life on Earth and the progression toward more complex and diverse forms of life.
  • Communicate effectively the impact of human activities on climate and the environment and reflect on daily decisions we can make in our lives to minimize our impact through written work or presentation.

BIOL-1050 Humans and the Environment (3 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method and how data and research are used to inform our understanding of environmental processes.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of population growth, limits of population growth, and carrying capacity in natural systems and relate these principles to human population growth.
  • Identify the components of an ecosystem and demonstrate an understanding of the nature of energy transfer, ecosystem succession, interactions between species, biodiversity, and sustainability of the environment.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how humans affect the environment.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the various forms of pollution, the particular characteristics of each type, and the effects of each upon the environment.
  • Collaborate in comparing and contrasting various alternative and traditional energy resources and discuss the strengths and limitations of each.
  • Discuss specific environmental laws, organize significant arguments pertaining to environmental issues, and defend their point of view in writing.
  • Work collaboratively and professionally both in discussion of the learning objectives and completion of course assignments.

BIOL-1060 Introduction to Aquaculture (4 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Understand the biological interdependence of humans with other species in our community and appreciate the extent to which modern society and culture have impacted the natural ecosystems that sustain life. 
  • Verbally demonstrate a basic knowledge of the community and ecosystem ecology of terrestrial and aquatic biomes. 
  • Effectively communicate the core permaculture principles and methods of sustainability and explain how they relate to the biological processes of natural ecosystems. 
  • Recognize patterns in nature and society through observation, analysis, and assessment. 
  • Apply whole-systems thinking and problem-solving skills to address basic human needs through sustainable ecological design. 

BIOL-1070 Human Biology (3 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Use terminology, both descriptively and diagnostically, appropriate to the human body.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between form (anatomy) and function (physiology) as applied to the organ systems of the human body.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with other students using traditional and 21st century technology to solve problems of the human body.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the interrelationships among the various organ systems as related to the whole body.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how various organ systems contribute to whole body homeostasis.

BIOL-1080 Introduction to Clinical Procedures  (3 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Take the vital signs of temperature, pulse, blood pressure and respiratory rate. Students should also be able to demonstrate knowledge of the normal values and the physiology associated with the vital signs.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in preparing the patient examining room, taking patient history and assisting the physician during the physical examination of the patient.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the OSHA Exposure Control Plan to eliminate or minimize employee exposure to blood borne pathogens and other potentially infectious material.
  • Demonstrate a basic knowledge about the bacterial and viral infections that might be seen in the medical office.
  • Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the diagnostic tests in microbiology, hematology and urinalysis.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of pulmonary, cardiovascular and auditory testing.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of a balanced diet and the nutrients essential for the balanced diet.

BIOL-1110 Introduction to Pharmacology (1 Credit)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Use basic pharmacological terminology.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the general mechanisms of drug action.
  • List the various drug forms.
  • Identify the routes of drug administration and drug pathways through the body.
  • Identify some specific classes of drugs, their physiologic action, therapeutic and toxic effects, and their interactions and incompatibilities with other drugs.

BIOL-1200 The Human in Health and Disease (3 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate a knowledge of chronic and communicable diseases, the practices involved in disease prevention, and the importance of the immune system as it relates to the disease process.
  • Explain the effects of drug abuse on the human body.
  • Identify the importance of a balanced diet and the value of exercise to health.
  • Explain various health concerns such as cancer, reproductive issues, infectious disease, microbiome health, genetic diseases, nutritional impacts, cardiovascular disease, respiratory diseases, endocrine diseases, urinary diseases, and neurological conditions.
  • Demonstrate the ability to find, use and evaluate credible scientific sources on health-related topics and how to disseminate fact-based information to the broader public.
  • Communicate and collaborate professionally in a group setting.
  • Explain the importance of responsible and ethical conduct of research.
  • Understand current public health-related issues and the role of epidemiology in human health.

BIOL-1300 Orientation to Biotechnology (1 Credit)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Define “biotechnology”.
  • Explain the origins of biotechnology as a human endeavor and contrast this with the field of modern biotechnology.
  • Describe several examples of events that were significant to the development of the field of modern biotechnology.
  • Describe several examples of the applications of biotechnology.
  • Trace the flow of genetic information from the level of genes to proteins.
  • Describe several examples of tools that are used in the manipulation of DNA and expression of genes in host cells.
  • List several examples of ethical issues that are related to biotechnology.
  • Both orally and in writing, clearly summarize and support both sides of an argument relating to an ethical issue related to biotechnology.
  • Describe sequentially, the major steps involved in getting a biopharmaceutical product from research and development to market. describe several examples of the applications of biotechnology.
  • Locate and navigate the Federal Drug Administration’s websites and the guidelines that are relevant to the production of biopharmaceutical products.
  • Explain the role of Good Manufacturing Practices in the production of biopharmaceutical products.
  • Describe the general role of each of the major departments found within a typical biopharmaceutical production plant. Relate these roles to GMP and FDA regulations.
  • Navigate the internet to find accurate information regarding biotechnology applications, issues, and jobs.

BIOL-1310 Introductory Biotechnology Skills (3 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Prepare buffers.
  • Prepare sterile media.
  • Perform calculations necessary for the preparation of media and solutions.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in use of the metric system of measurement.
  • Demonstrate an understanding and use of significant figures.
  • Demonstrate the ability to maintain a safe laboratory working environment.
  • Use volume and mass measuring devices.
  • Explain the significance of “quality” in various laboratory settings.
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of GMP documentation.
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of GLP documentation.
  • Use a pH meter to measure the pH of a solution and to adjust the pH of a buffer.
  • Use a visible light spectrophotometer.
  • Perform serial dilution and demonstrate an understanding of the use of serial dilution.
  • Use a centrifuge in a safe and proper manner.
  • Use an autoclave in a safe and proper manner.
  • Demonstrate proper gowning technique.
  • Graph a set of data using Excel software.
  • Prepare and use a standard curve to analyze experimental data.
  • Write an SOP for a standard unit of laboratory equipment.
  • Use an SOP to perform a task.
  • Demonstrate laboratory management skills (e.g. planning and purchasing; familiarity with use of company web sites).

BIOL-2001 Introduction to Neuroscience (3 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Describe the cellular and gross anatomy of the nervous system using proper neuroscientific language.
  • Describe methods used in neuroscience research.
  • Explain the electrical and chemical signaling between neurons and how this underlies behavior.
  • Differentiate organization and function of neurotransmitter systems.
  • Compare and contrast the organization and function of multiple sensory-motor systems.
  • Explain the role and importance of human, animal/insect, in vitro, and computational models in neuroscience.
 

BIOL 2025 Biology of Trees and Shrubs (4 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Display an ability to communicate, using proper biological vocabulary, in both written and spoken English.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the biotic and abiotic needs of trees and shrubs.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the anatomy of woody plants.
  • Demonstrate the ability to identify common RI tree species in summer and winter.
  • Demonstrate the ability to select the proper trees and shrubs based on the biotic and abiotic factors of the site and proposed site use.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of proper planting, pruning, and fertilizing of trees and shrubs.
  • Identify and diagnose common abiotic and biotic problems with trees and shrubs and prescribe treatment options.

BIOL 2040 – Human Sexuality - 3 Credits

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the Scientific Method, and be able to explain what scientific investigation actually encompasses.
  • Identify significant historical figures involved in research into Human Sexuality, and what it is that they achieved.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the historical events that influenced our perceptions of what sexuality is.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the anatomy of the male and female reproductive systems.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the function or physiology of the male and female reproductive systems.
  • Explain the genetic basis of gender and be able to identify the processes by which gametes can be produced.
  • Identify the specific aspects of sexual development in three stages of human development, namely childhood, adolescence adulthood.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the nature of the sexual response and the various models that explain the physiology.
  • Explain the types and origins of various atypical sexual behaviors.
  • Discuss the causes of sexual dysfunctions and the associated therapies.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the techniques used to enhance sexual communication.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the various types of fertility control approaches as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the effects of coercive sexual relationships.
  • Identify various Sexually Transmitted Diseases or STD’s.

BIOL-2070 Evolution: A History of Life on Earth (3 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Understand the role that geography played in the history of life.
  • Identify the many lines of evidence that support the theory of biological evolution.
  • Understand the mechanism of Natural Selection and other mechanisms that drive the evolutional process.
  • Understand the species concept, how speciation occurs, and how species are maintained as separate entities.
  • Understand why the bast majority of all species that have ever lived became extinct.

BIOL 2090 – Genetics - 3 Credits

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Appropriately use terminology specific to the science of genetics.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of classical/Mendelian genetics.
  • Apply Mendelian principles and gain an appreciation of genetic counseling and pedigree development.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the chromosomal and molecular basis of inheritance and gene expression.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of bacterial genetics.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of mutagenesis/mutations and the consequences of genetic change.
  • Explain Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium, the assumptions under which equilibrium exists, and the forces that affect gene frequencies in populations.
  • Solve problems using the H-W equation to calculate allele or genotype frequency.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the mechanisms by which the forces of evolution affect gene frequencies in populations.
  • Discuss the significance of genetic manipulation and its application in biotechnology.


BIOL-2130 Food from the Sea (3 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Describe important marine fisheries and aquaculture harvest and production systems.
  • Describe the impact of the types of fishing gear and techniques used in capture fisheries.
  • Describe the main aquaculture techniques and their suitability to the production of various seafood.
  • Appropriately use the concept of value chain in analyzing fishery and aquaculture products from their origin to the consumer.
  • Understand the economic and social dimensions in seafood value chains using specific examples.
  • Recognize key nutritional aspects of seafood and the role of seafood in maintaining human health.

BIOL-2201 Human Anatomy & Physiology I (4 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Use the terminology of anatomy and physiology and discuss the relationship between structure and function.
  • Explain and apply the concept of homeostasis.
  • Identify and model major molecules of the body, their characteristics and interactions.
  • Describe cell compartments, the structure of organelles and role of each in maintaining cellular homeostasis, as well as describe mechanisms that move molecules through the plasma membrane.
  • Understand the principles of microscopy, identify basic tissues of the body and explain how the structural characteristics of a tissue fits the location and function.
  • Describe the layers and accessory structures of the integumentary system, as well as correlate the structures of each to their specific functions within the larger function of the system.
  • Identify the components of the skeletal system, including identifying and classifying articulations by structure and function.
  • Identify major skeletal muscles, their attachments and movements, as well as describe the structure of skeletal muscle cells and explain the physiology of skeletal muscle contraction.
  • Describe the organization of the nervous system anatomically and functionally, and explain the generation, conduction, and transmission of a neural impulse.
  • Create and interpret graphs, as well as write a coherent paragraph expressing their understanding of topics.

BIOL-2202 Human Anatomy & Physiology II (4 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Describe the anatomy of the heart and the diagram flow of blood through the heart.  Explain the mechanism of cardiac contraction, events of the cardiac cycle, and variables that influence cardiac output.
  • Identify the major vessel pathways of the body; describe blood vessel types and their effects on blood flow and pressures.  Identify the components of blood and their major functions, discuss the process of hemostasis, and explain the importance of blood typing.
  • Describe structures, distribution, and function of the vessels, cells, and organs of the lymphatic system; differentiate between innate and adaptive defenses and their roles in immunity in the body.
  • Describe the functional anatomy of respiratory structures, summarize the principles governing the movement of air as well as diffusion and transport of gases.
  • Describe the gross and microscopic structures of the urinary system, their roles in urine formation and maintenance of homeostasis; describe the normal characteristics and composition of a urine sample.
  • Identify digestive structures and explain their function in the different digestive processes, as well as discuss the processes of metabolism in the body.
  • Describe the endocrine organs and their hormones; as well as specify the functions of hormones and how they interact to produce coordinated physiological responses.
  • Describe the components of the male and female reproductive structures and their role in reproduction, outline the processes of gametogenesis and hormone cycles; as well as maturation and nourishment of a developing embryo.

BIOL-2210 Introductory Microbiology (4 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Describe morphology, metabolism and genetics of microbes.
  • Discuss the characteristics of microbial growth and the use of physical and chemical mechanisms to limit growth and resolve infections.
  • Explain the innate and adaptive immune system as it interacts with pathogens.
  • Explain the role of the microbiome in human health and disease.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in lab safety, aseptic technique.
  • Apply staining, biochemical and genomic methods in the classification and identification of microbial unknowns.
  • Critique credible sources and effectively communicate current microbiology topics to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

BIOL-2220 Introduction to Pathophysiology (3 Credits)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Use terminology of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology.
  • Discuss the pathophysiologic changes that occur as a result of cell injury.
  • Discuss genes and distinguish between genetic disorders and congenital disorders with examples.
  • Discuss neoplasia from oncogenesis to tumor structure and behavior, and explain common effects.
  • Discuss the events of inflammation and analyze its role in both homeostasis and disease.
  • Explain the known etiology, pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of some of the major diseases system by system.
  • Apply anatomy (morphology) and physiology (function) concepts to identify selected disease conditions.
  • Utilize many learning techniques and study skills.

BIOL-2262 Neuroscience Research methods (4 Credits) 

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate proficiency in understanding modern experimental approaches in neuroscience through discussion and demonstration.
  • Discuss practical applications and limitations of modern experimental approaches and techniques in neuroscience.
  • Propose reasonable solutions to neuroscientific problems using critical thinking skills and appropriate experimental methods.
  • Communicate scientific results and contextual analyses.
  • Demonstrate proficiency throughout the course in lab safety.

BIOL 2410 - Biology of Insects - 4 Credits

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Understand the basic morphology (form) and physiology (function) of insects.
  • Describe the major life stages and developmental processes of insects.
  • Collect and identify the diverse insects present in Rhode Island.
  • Describe insect behaviors related to communication, mate selection, feeding, protection, and sociobiology.
  • Discuss the importance of interactions between insects and other members of the ecological community, including pollination, predation, herbivory, and parasitism.
  • Discuss the role that insects play in human health and disease.
  • Discuss various insect pest-control techniques and their implications on human health and the environment.
  • Research and present a class presentation on an entomological topic of interest.  Be able to write and communicate effectively.

BIOL-2420 Introduction to Soil Science (4 Credits) 

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of what soil is and what it is made of.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the chemical and physical processes involved in soil formation.
  • Describe the properties of soil and explain how they derive from its composition and climate regime.
  • Explain and provide examples of how the different properties of a soil make it suitable for different uses.
  • Understand and explain how the properties of soil chance upon it being used.
  • Understand how soil management practices work in agriculture.
  • Use the Web Soil Survey to get information about a soil, and to apply that information to real-life decisions, such as choice of crop cultivation or building.

BIOL 2480 – General Microbiology - 4 Credits

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the morphological diversity among both prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the cell biology of microorganisms including their metabolic pathways and genetics.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics of microbial growth, and the use of physical and chemical methods used to control growth and resolve infections.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the human immune response.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the roles microorganisms play in geochemical cycles, as normal flora on plants and animals, and as instruments in genetic engineering and industrial production.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the routes of transmission and epidemiology of infectious microorganisms using specific examples of human pathogens.
  • Demonstrate mastery of aseptic technique, and the ability to apply staining and biochemical methods in the classification and identification to microbial unknowns.
  • Demonstrate the ability to apply course concepts and learned laboratory techniques in solving environmental and industrial case studies.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the Chemical Hazards Communication* and Bloodborne Pathogen Standards** and how they apply in laboratory, industrial and clinical settings.

    *OSHA’s Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals (29CFR 1910.1450)
    **OSHA’s Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens (29CFR 1910.1030)

BIOL-2500 Applications in Science and Math (1 Credit)

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate proficiency in using library resources for locating and acquiring primary literature in science and/or mathematics.
  • Demonstrate the ability to implement use of the scientific method by analyzing data, designing experiments, and critiquing research.
  • Demonstrate understanding of proper means of communicating scientific/mathematical research findings in both written and oral formats.
  • Communicate and collaborate professionally in a group setting.
  • Discern credibility of sources and effectively communicate current topics in biology.