Our aim in this course is to introduce you to the logic of thinking about the process of adaptation.  We will do this by addressing a number of key controversies in behavioural ecology, the study of how natural selection shapes the behaviour of animals.  Our lectures are organised into four modules: how can cooperative behaviour emerge and be maintained, how can the costs and benefits of behavioural and reproductive strategies be balanced, what are the underlying principles that govern animal communication, and the biology of sex: when is it advantageous to produce sons or daughters, what are the benefits of mate choice to females, why in some systems to males provide more care to offspring than females etc?  These areas cover research topics of interest to the strong behavioural ecology group at ANU.  However, the primary aim of the course is to develop a logical approach that can be applied to understanding any question in biology. 

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately.

The aim of the course is to develop a logical approach that can be applied to thinking about the process of adaptation.  Although our focus will be on topics of interest to the strong behavioural ecology group at ANU, we will develop a logical approach that can be applied to understanding any question in biology. The generic skills we expect you to obtain in this course are the abilities to:

1. recognise when behaviour poses difficulties for accepted wisdom and theory
2. think strategically on how to formulate and test hypotheses to further investigate such anomalies
3. communicate problems and their solutions to both an intelligent public and a community of informed scientists
4. read the literature critically to assimilate views on new findings and present these views in writing
5. develop a grant proposal to seek funds for a program of research on adaptation

Assessment will be based on:

• Two written exercises (50%; LO 1-4)
• Final examination (50%; LO 1-3)
• Grant proposal (LO 2, 3, 5)

3 hours of lectures per week and one 2-hour tutorial session per week

Bachelor of Science or equivalent with a major in the field of biological sciences with relevant experience or academic achievement. 

A background in genetics, ecology and statistics is recommended, though the course is also suited to students with a background in psychology or biological anthropology. 

BIOL6010 is strongly recommended.

BIOL6010 is strongly recommended