Biology Learning Outcomes

Mission Statement

Students studying biology at Grinnell College practice the methods of biological inquiry to uncover the wonder of life, from molecules to ecosystems, and from the foundations to the frontiers of the life sciences. Students are well-placed to use this knowledge to understand the relevance of biology to other disciplines, society, and emerging challenges. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Students conduct biological inquiry proficiently, as exhibited by:
   1. designing and conducting investigations to ask questions about living systems. 
   2. evaluating data and other forms of evidence pursuant to raising a novel question or hypothesis. 
   3. effectively and responsibly communicating biological information and ideas. 
   4. identifying, evaluating, and properly integrating knowledge from the scientific literature. 


2. Students apply key biological concepts to all levels of biological organization: 
   1. relating physical and chemical characteristics of living things to biological function. 
   2. analyzing how sub-organismal components independently and collectively support organismal function. 
   3. explaining how organisms survive in, reproduce in, interact with, and evolve in their environment. 
   4. applying evolutionary theory to understand the phylogenetic relationships of organisms.  
   5. applying elements of organismal structure to organismal function in populations, communities, and ecosystems. 


3. Students connect biology to other academic disciplines and society, as exhibited by:
   1. applying biological principles to problems that affect human society. 
   2. evaluating how societal and cultural practices and beliefs influence the practice of biological research. 

Updated webpage 3/7/2024