BIOAP 2140 - [The Biological Basis of Sex Differences]

(crosslisted)
(also BIOMS 2140, BSOC 2141, FGSS 2140) (PBS)

Fall. 3 credits.

Prerequisite: one college-level biology course or permission of instructor. Next offered 2014-2015. (Offered alternate years)

J. Fortune.

Examines the structural and functional differences between the sexes. Emphasizes mechanisms of mammalian reproduction; where possible, special attention is given to studies of humans. Current evidence on the effects of gender on nonreproductive aspects of life (behavior, mental and physical capabilities) is discussed. The course is intended to provide students with a basic knowledge of reproductive endocrinology and with a basis for objective evaluation of sex differences in relation to contemporary life.

Outcome 1: basic understanding of the regulation of female and male mammalian reproduction and the ability to relate course content to practical areas such as contraception and infertility

Outcome 2: appreciation for the process of acquiring new scientific knowledge

Outcome 3: understanding of the difficulty of separating biological and cultural influences on non-reproductive sex differences