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Specialty Topics

Biology Across Disciplines

Melanie Peffer

In this course, we will explore the applicability and relationship of biology to the arts, business, and psychology. First, we’ll discuss art as a foundational practice to biology and how biology as a science can explain how we interact with the arts, in particular, our experiences making and listening to music. Next, we will discuss the business of biology and how research is funded and the process of clinical trials and human subjects research. Then we will examine two topics at the interface of psychology and biology: (1) human development from conception to adulthood, and (2) how cognition influences how we make decisions about biological issues and best practices for evaluating biological evidence in light of what we know about how we use evidence to make decisions. We will close with a discussion of education and why evidence-based education is important for promoting overall science literacy.

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What's inside

Syllabus

The Arts and Biology

In this module, we'll explore the intersection of biology with the fine arts.

The Business of Biology

In this module, we'll explore how business practices and economics influence biology.

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Relevant to individuals who seek the practical applications of biology and psychology in everyday life

Suitable for beginners who want to gain foundational knowledge in biology, psychology, and the arts

An interdisciplinary approach allows learners to connect different disciplines and see their interconnections

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Reviews summary

Biology's broad interdisciplinary reach

According to learners, this course offers a truly eye-opening and interdisciplinary perspective on biology, connecting it seamlessly to fields like art, business, and psychology. Many found the lectures engaging and the content highly applicable to real-world decision-making, particularly in evaluating scientific evidence. While praised for its clarity and accessibility, making it ideal for lifelong learners and those without a science background, some students noted that it provides breadth over depth, occasionally feeling surface-level or scattered if a deeper dive into specific areas was expected.

Highly suitable for lifelong learners and those new to interdisciplinary biology.

"Highly recommend for anyone looking to broaden their perspective beyond traditional science."

"Good for a general audience, perhaps not for someone with a specific professional focus."

"As a non-science major, this course was perfect for me."

"It's more about appreciation and understanding connections than in-depth scientific study."

The instructor is praised for clear, accessible, and enthusiastic teaching.

"The instructor's lectures were engaging and easy to follow."

"The instructor did a good job making complex topics accessible."

"The instructor's enthusiasm was contagious, and the examples used were very relatable."

"The instructor was engaging and knowledgeable."

Equips learners to critically evaluate biological information in daily life.

"The module on 'Making Decisions Using Biological Evidence' was particularly insightful and directly applicable."

"It changed the way I think about everyday biological information."

"I feel much more equipped to critically evaluate scientific claims now."

"The discussions on 'Making Decisions Using Biological Evidence' were crucial for navigating information today."

A unique strength in connecting biology to diverse fields like arts and psychology.

"I never thought about how biology intersects with art and business in such practical ways."

"A very unique course that bridges multiple disciplines."

"It's so refreshing to see biology applied in such diverse contexts."

"This course truly delivered on its promise of 'Biology Across Disciplines'."

Covers a wide range of topics, but some learners desire more in-depth content.

"Some parts felt a bit surface-level given the breadth of topics, but it's understandable for an introductory course."

"While interesting, the course felt a bit scattered, jumping from art to business to psychology."

"Don't expect to become an expert."

"The content sometimes lacked the depth I was looking for. Not what I expected from a university course."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Specialty Topics: Biology Across Disciplines with these activities:

Review previous course materials

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To build a strong foundational understanding of the key concepts in biology and psychology in preparation for this course.

Browse courses on Biology

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Review your notes or textbooks from previous biology and psychology courses.
Take practice quizzes or tests to assess your understanding of the material.

Read Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

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To gain a broader perspective on the relationship between biology, psychology, and human development.

View Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks... on Amazon

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Purchase or borrow the book.
Set aside time each day to read a section.
Take notes or highlight important passages.

Explore online tutorials on specific aspects of biology and psychology

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To supplement your learning and gain a deeper understanding of specific topics in biology and psychology.

Browse courses on Biology

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Identify areas where you need additional support.
Search for online tutorials that cover those topics.
Follow the tutorials and take notes.

Five other activities

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Solve practice problems on biology and psychology concepts

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To strengthen your understanding of the fundamental principles of biology and psychology and improve your problem-solving skills.

Browse courses on Biology

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Find practice problems in textbooks, online resources, or workbooks.
Attempt to solve the problems on your own.
Check your answers and review the concepts if necessary.

Join a study group to discuss course material and practice concepts with peers

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To enhance your understanding of the course material through collaboration and peer learning.

Browse courses on Biology

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Find a study group or form one with classmates.
Meet regularly to discuss the material.
Work together to solve problems and clarify concepts.

Develop a presentation on a topic related to the intersection of biology and psychology

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To demonstrate your understanding of the connections between biology and psychology and to practice your presentation skills.

Browse courses on Biology

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Choose a topic that interests you.
Research the topic and gather information from credible sources.
Create an outline for your presentation.
Prepare visual aids, such as slides or props.
Practice your presentation and time yourself.

Create a blog or website that summarizes key concepts from the course

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To reinforce your learning by teaching the material to others and to create a resource that you can refer to in the future.

Browse courses on Biology

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Choose a platform for your blog or website.
Write posts that summarize the key concepts from each module.
Include visuals, examples, and interactive elements to make the content engaging.

Participate in a science fair or competition related to biology or psychology

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To challenge yourself, apply your knowledge in a practical setting, and potentially earn recognition for your work.

Browse courses on Biology

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Identify a science fair or competition that aligns with your interests.
Develop a project that demonstrates your understanding of a scientific concept.
Prepare a presentation and display board.

Career center

Learners who complete Specialty Topics: Biology Across Disciplines will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Biologist

Biologists study the living world, from molecules to ecosystems. This course can help you build a foundation in biology, which can be useful for understanding the biological processes that shape our world.

See salaries and explore the career path for Biologist

Psychologist

Psychologists study the mind and behavior. This course can help you build a foundation in psychology, which can be useful for understanding the psychological processes that underlie human behavior.

See salaries and explore the career path for Psychologist

Neuroscientist

Neuroscientists study the nervous system. This course can help you build a foundation in biology and psychology, which can be useful for understanding the structure and function of the nervous system.

See salaries and explore the career path for Neuroscientist

Physician

Physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. This course can help you build a foundation in biology and psychology, which can be useful for understanding the human body and the diseases that affect it.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physician

Cognitive Psychologist

Cognitive psychologists study how people think, learn, and remember. This course can help you build a foundation in psychology, which can be useful for understanding the cognitive processes that underlie human behavior.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cognitive Psychologist

Developmental Psychologist

Developmental psychologists study how people develop from conception to adulthood. This course can help you build a foundation in psychology, which can be useful for understanding the physical, cognitive, and emotional changes that occur throughout life.

See salaries and explore the career path for Developmental Psychologist

Bioethicist

Bioethicists apply ethical principles to biological research and medical practice. This course can help you build a foundation in biology and psychology, which can be useful for understanding the ethical issues that arise in these fields.

See salaries and explore the career path for Bioethicist

Science Writer

Science writers communicate scientific information to the public. This course can help you build a foundation in biology and psychology, which can be useful for understanding scientific research and writing about it in a clear and engaging way.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer

Art Therapist

Art therapists use art to help people with mental and physical health conditions. This course can help you build a foundation in biology and psychology, which can be useful for understanding how art can be used to promote healing and well-being.

See salaries and explore the career path for Art Therapist

Market Researcher

Market researchers study consumer behavior to help businesses develop and market products and services. This course can help you build a foundation in psychology, which can be useful for understanding the psychological factors that influence consumer behavior.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Educator

Educators teach students about a variety of subjects. This course can help you build a foundation in biology and psychology, which can be useful for teaching students about the living world and the human mind.

See salaries and explore the career path for Educator

Artist

Artists use their understanding of human biology and psychology to create works that resonate with audiences. This course can help you build a foundation in these areas, which can be useful for creating art that is both meaningful and impactful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Artist

Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare administrators manage the day-to-day operations of healthcare organizations. This course can help you build a foundation in biology and psychology, which can be useful for understanding the healthcare system and the needs of patients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator

Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications and provide information about their use. This course can help you build a foundation in biology and chemistry, which can be useful for understanding the properties and effects of medications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacist

Business Analyst

Business analysts use their understanding of business and technology to improve organizational performance. This course can help you build a foundation in biology and psychology, which can be useful for understanding the human factors that affect business decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Specialty Topics: Biology Across Disciplines.

Exploring Lifespan Development

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This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of human development from conception to adulthood, covering both biological and psychological aspects, making it an excellent resource for the module on human development.

Specialty Topics

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What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Biology's broad interdisciplinary reach

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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