Department of Biology
Darlene Panvini (chair), Ronald Barrett (professor emeritus), Chris Barton, Holly Cyphert*, Melissa Fischer*, Robert T. Grammer, David R. Hill (professor emeritus), Roger Jackson, Gracie Andrews King*, Lori McGrew, Steven Murphree, John Niedzwiecki, Nicholas Ragsdale, Donald Ramage (professor emeritus), Elaine Shelton*, Erick Spears*, Laura Stephan*, Daniel Swale*, Jennifer Thomas.
*Lecturer
Vision:
To be a department characterized by superior teaching/learning experiences combining personal interaction with creative use of technology; enrichment of academic growth by a curricular structure which continually stimulates independent student exploration of the biological sciences; and an atmosphere of Christian concern for the student in the areas of career planning, academic advising, intellectual growth, and development of an appreciation for, and an ethical sensitivity to matters of biological concern.
Purpose:
The Biology Department is dedicated to providing students with an academically challenging curriculum which enables them to develop a basic understanding of and an appreciation for the organisms and interactions making up the living world.
Goals:
- Effectively search, read, and comprehend the biological literature
- Develop written/oral arguments using data
- Use appropriate technology to present in a public forum
- Analyze data quantitatively with appropriate technology
- Apply scientific method to a research question
- Synthesize conclusions
- Develop proficiency with lab/field equipment
- Relate structure to function
- Comprehend genetics
- Recognize principles of adaptation and evolution
- Participate in a collaborative research experience
- Participate in community-based scientific endeavors
- Reflect on the social consequences of biology
Not all courses are offered in any one year. Certain advanced courses alternate to meet demands.