Open courseware for Macroevolution, focusing on research methods and software packages, such as R.
Course description
Evolutionary thinking provides the underpinnings of modern biology. In recent decades, the field of macroevolution (evolution above the species level) has matured into a rich discipline with a well-developed mathematical theory for testing hypotheses of species diversification, for understanding trait evolution, and evaluating patterns of covariation across the tree of life. This course will provide a synthetic view of biology and how life on earth has changed over time.
Course Outcomes
Upon completion of the course, students will:
Understand patterns of diversity in the fossil record, and changes in that diversity over time
Understand macroevolutionary patterns and processes, and the difference between gradualism, stasis, and punctuated equilibrium
Become familiar with ‘tree thinking’, and understand the principles of using a phylogenetic perspective to address evolutionary questions in biology
Gain experience in applying cutting-edge phylogenetic methods for testing hypotheses in macroevolution
- Subject:
- Applied Science
- Biology
- Ecology
- Environmental Science
- Life Science
- Mathematics
- Measurement and Data
- Physical Science
- Material Type:
- Activity/Lab
- Full Course
- Lecture Notes
- Module
- Syllabus
- Provider:
- Iowa State University
- Author:
- Josh Justison
- Tracy Heath
- Date Added:
- 07/05/2022