Research in Biology (BIO 598)
Fall 2000
COURSE INFORMATION
(T, Th: 1400-1715)
231 and C223 (22413) Copernicus
Dr. Clayton A. Penniman
341 Copernicus, 860-832-2658
penniman@ccsu.edu
Dr. Cheryl L. Watson
344 Copernicus, 860-832-2649
watson@ccsu.edu
Course Description:
Research in Biology is designed to familiarize the graduate student with techniques and resources associated with research in the biological sciences. Four primary areas will be addressed: (1) Introduction to data analysis and word processing; (2) Research writing methods; (3) Techniques in statistical analysis; and (4) Research design integrating items one through three. Also included are discussions of ethics in writing and in research; guidelines employed in human and animal research; and the attainment of financial support for research.
Microcomputer instruction will include opportunities to use either Windows/DOS or Apple Macintosh platforms. Computing exercises will include an introduction to data analysis (Excel), graphing (Excel, SigmaPlot) and word processing (WordPerfect and Word). Statistical and experimental design instruction includes measures of central tendency, standard deviation and error, and t-tests. Additional emphasis is placed upon the value and proper utilization of statistical procedures and the concept of significance.
The final course grade is based upon the grades earned for performance on computer exercises, statistical problems, written assignments, examinations, and a written research report.
Office Hours:
Dr. Clayton A. Penniman Office: 341 Copernicus (832-2658; penniman@ccsu.edu)
Office hours, M: 1-2; T: 2-3; W: 11-2; Th: 1-3
Dr. Cheryl L. Watson Office: 344 Copernicus (832-2649; watsonc@ccsu.edu)
Office hours, W: 11-12; Th: 2-4; F: 3-4
Class Policies:
Attendance at all classes, the completion of all assignments, and the taking of all examinations are requirements for this course. Make-up examinations may be given at the discretion of the instructors only in unusual circumstances. If course-related problems arise during the semester, you are urged to see the instructor(s) during scheduled office hours.
If you need course adaptations or accommodations because of a disability, if you have emergency medical information to share with the instructor, or if you need special arrangements in case the building must be evacuated, please make an appointment to discuss these issues with the instructor as soon as possible.
Required texts:
LoBiondo-Wood, G. and J. Haber. 1994. Nursing Research Methods, Critical Appraisal, and Utilization Fourth Edition. Mosby-Year Book, Inc., St. Louis, MO. 597 pp.
Daniel, W.W. 1999. Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in the Health Sciences Seventh Edition. John Wiley and Sons, Inc. 907 pp.
Grading:
Final course grades will be based upon a class total of 1000 points allocated as described below:
1. Computer skills (85 points)
Spreadsheet exercise 10 points
Graphing exercise (3 @ 20 points) 60
Word processing exercise 15
2. Scientific writing (300 points)
Research paper 300
3. Statistics and experimental design (615 points)
Statistics assignments (homework) 210 points
6 @ 35 points each
Statistics and experimental design exams 260
2 @ 130 each
Final exam 145
BIO 598 Table of Contents