Learning objectives

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

  1. Identify and discuss core concepts of biodiversity.
  2. Quantify and compare measures of taxonomic diversity within and among samples.
  3. Quantify the distribution of traits and species in a phylogenetic context.
  4. Evaluate biodiversity in spatial and temporal contexts.
  5. Use the R programming language to analyze and visualize biodiversity data.
  6. Use GitHub for conducting and managing reproducible research projects.

Student assessment

  • Assignments: Worksheets containing in-class exercises and assignments submitted via GitHub.
  • Reading: Assigned literature before class meetings.
  • Group project: An independent project conducted in groups and presented to the class.
  • Participation: Attendance and engagement in discussion and computational exercises.

Late assignments

We encourage you to let us know in advance if you are having problems with coursework. Otherwise, if assignments are submitted less than 24 hours after the deadline, grade on that assignment will automatically be reduced 50% prior to grading. Assignments submitted more than 24 hours after the deadline will receive no credit. You will receive an incomplete for the course if you receive two or more no-credit evaluations or four or more half-credit evaluations.

Academic integrity

As a student at IU, you are expected to adhere to the standards and policies detailed in the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct. When you submit an assignment with your name on it, you signify that the work is yours unless otherwise cited or referenced. Ideas or materials taken from another source must be acknowledged. If you are unsure about the expectations for an assignment, ask the instructor. Suspected violations will be handled under university policy.

Attendance and punctuality

Given the small number of class meetings and group work, on-time and synchronous attendance is required. Communicate conflicts to the instructor as early as possible.

Accessibility and accomodations

Please contact the course director as soon as possible about documented disabilities or other issues that affect participation in course activities.