Course Description
Understanding and managing emerging infectious diseases, primarily zoonotic, using an ecologically-based approach. Students learn theory and skills in the epidemiology and ecology of infectious diseases. Corequisite: BIO 445.
Syllabus
Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:
Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
- Explain the importance of the application of an ecological and evolutionary approaches for the study of infectious diseases.
- Describe the effect of infectious diseases on individuals, populations, communities, and ecosystems.
- Utilize concepts based on the epidemiologic triad to explain the natural and anthropogenic drivers of infectious disease emergence.
- Describe theoretical models of infectious diseases at the population and community levels and outline their implications for disease control and prevention
- Develop mathematical models for different disease systems
- Describe study designs and terminology used in epidemiology of infectious diseases
- Utilize statistical methods to analyze data sets and parameterize mathematical models
- Describe the historical development and current research in the field of infectious disease ecology
- Describe the taxonomic and biological diversity of parasitic organisms and host responses to infection.
- Critique primary literature in epidemiology, biology and ecology.
- Collaborate with peers in conducting research.
- Present scientific data in front of live peer audience
Course Grading Information:
| Activity/Performance Measure | Percentage/Points |
|---|---|
| Class | 40% |
| Midterm 1 | 10% |
| Final exam | 25% |
| Skypack homework | 5% |
| Discussions/seminars | 30% |
| Seminars on selected disease | 20% |
| SimBio “How diseases spread” module | 10% |
| Lab | 30% |
| Mini proposal | 7% |
| Final report and presentation | 12% |
| Engagement | 5% |
| Other lab activities | 6% |
Attendance/Participation:
Mandatory. Excusable absences (due to confirmed medical or family-related emergencies) require prior notification or when not possible as soon as possible.
First unauthorized absence will result in a warning, second in a reduction of a full letter grade, and third in failure in the course.
Course Materials Purchased by the Students:
- Skypack: a digital course pack. Get it through the bookstore or directly from skypack.
- SimBio module: How diseases spread. Registration to this will be given for free through the Biology department.
Scholarly Perspectives
This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.