AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF BEIRUT
Faculty of Arts & Sciences
Department of Biology
ENTOMOLOGY
BIOLOGY 286
Instructor: Khouzama Knio
Course objectives:
To introduce students to the fascinating world of insects, the most numerous and diverse
animal species on Earth! To study insect morphology and physiology and see how form
relates to function. To become familiar with the major groups of insects, and discover their
behaviour, life styles, and ecology.
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Course Learning Objectives
Program Learning
Evaluation
Outcomes
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Knowledge of entomological terms
2
exams/lecture discussion
Sudy insect anatomy and physiology
1, 2, 3
quizzes; lab quizzes;
lab.practical/slides…
Understanding the evolution and
2, 3, 7, 8
exams; readings
diversity of insects
Identifying the major orders and
families of insects
1, 2, 6
exams; lab. quizzes
insect collection.
Learning how to make an insect
collection
1, 2, 6
insect collection
Learning about insect behaviour
and life histories
Getting rid of the fear of insects
2, 7, 8
exams
8
insect collection
Handling insects
Appreciate the importance, value,
and role of different insect species
7, 8
discussion/ exams
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Proposed Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)
Students graduating from Biology with a BS should be able to:
1. Apply high ethical standards of academia in teaching, research, and reporting of
experimental results as well as in humane treatment of all living organisms.
2. Use proper vocabulary to demonstrate basic knowledge and understanding of major
integrating concepts of biology, including the chemical basis for life, cell theory,
genetics, microbiology, physiology, immunology, ecology, and the origin, evolution,
and diversity of life.
3. Analyze the relationship between structure and function at molecular, cellular,
organismal, and ecological levels.
4. Explain molecular mechanisms and regulation of gene expression and metabolism.
5. Test hypotheses by choosing model systems, designing and conducting experiments,
properly recording observations, and interpreting experimental data using
appropriate tools.
6. Create safe and efficient scientific work environments in indoor and field
laboratories.
7. Demonstrate competence in scientific communication, including using the literature
and public domain databases, and explanation of historical advances and biological
issues of public concern.
8. Argue that biology is not a stand alone science, but rather that it needs to integrate
other empirical and social sciences to be properly studied and understood.