Course Description
BIO-202 Biology: Life on Earth is an introductory undergraduate course designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in biology and human anatomy. This course explores the fundamental principles of life, including cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, ecology, and the organization of the human body. Students will examine the interconnections between living organisms and their environments while gaining a detailed understanding of human anatomical systems and their physiological roles. Through a combination of theoretical study and practical application, students will develop critical thinking and scientific inquiry skills essential for further studies in the biological sciences.
The course is structured over seven periods, with five study periods dedicated to core content delivered through textbooks and instructional videos, and two final periods focused on assessment. Assessments include a major paper, a quiz, and an oral examination, allowing students to demonstrate their mastery of biological and anatomical concepts.
Course Structure
Study Periods (1–5): Engage with assigned textbook readings and instructional videos covering key topics in biology and human anatomy, including:
Concepts of cell biology and biochemistry
Concepts of genetics and heredity
Human anatomy and physiological systems
Final Periods (6–7):
Major Paper: Students will write a research paper on a topic related to biology or human anatomy. Students must use the latest paper template available on the course portal and consult with the instructor for approval of their major paper title by the end of Period 3.
Quiz: A comprehensive quiz covering material from all study periods.
Oral Examination: An oral presentation and Q&A session to assess understanding of course concepts and the major paper topic.
Important Reminders
Templates: Always use the most recent templates for the major paper and other assignments, available on the course portal. Failure to use the correct template may result in point deductions.
Major Paper Title Approval: Submit your proposed major paper title to the instructor for approval by the end of Period 3. Early consultation is encouraged to ensure alignment with course objectives.
AI Use Disclosure: Any use of artificial intelligence tools (e.g., for research, writing, or editing) must be fully disclosed in accordance with university policy. Include a clear statement in your major paper and other assignments detailing how AI was used, if applicable. Failure to disclose AI use may result in academic penalties.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
Describe the fundamental principles of biology and their applications to life on Earth.
Identify and explain the structure and function of major human anatomical systems.
Analyze the relationships between organisms and their environments through ecological and evolutionary perspectives.
Conduct independent research and communicate scientific findings effectively in written and oral formats.
Apply critical thinking and scientific inquiry to solve biological problems.
Teaching Methods:
This course employs a variety of teaching methods to enhance student learning, including:
- Lectures/Videos
- Major Textbooks
- Response Papers with Instructor Feedback
- Creation of Quiz for ‘Instructor-mode thinking on the course’
- Major Paper with Instructor Feedback
- Final discussion / interview / examination.
Assessment Methods:
Student performance will be evaluated through a combination of assessments, including:
- Response Papers (5) with Instructor Feedback
- Quiz
- Major Paper (1) with Instructor Feedback
- Final discussion / interview / examination.
By the end of this course, students will have a solid understanding of medical physiology and biochemistry, enabling them to apply their knowledge to the study and treatment of diseases, with drug development in mind.
- Credit value: 3-6 (US standard) | 6-12 (ECTS standard)
- Indicative duration (full-time): 4-10 weeks
- Indicative duration (part-time): 5-12 weeks
- Certificate: Yes
COURSE METHODOLOGY
This course is based on standard EUCLID methodology. Students may refer to the following resources:
- Academic Guidelines (HQ version)
- Academic Guidelines (most recent version even if unofficial)
- Student Orientation Guidelines (most recent version even if unofficial)
- Zotero instructions for EUCLID students
- Grammarly instructions for EUCLID students
REQUIRED TEXTS AND MATERIAL
Course material is provided in the form of embedded videos, audio MP3s, and/or downloadable PDFs.
COURSE INSTRUCTOR | ASSOCIATED FACULTY
Please contact Admissions and the International Faculty Coordinator to confirm faculty assignment.
COURSE SYLLABUS | ACCESS TO 7 PERIODS