Mathematical Genetics
Fall 2013
Dr. Richard Gomulkiewicz
Dr. Stephen Krone


COURSE INFORMATION

Instructor:

Prof. Richard Gomulkiewicz (WSU)
Office: 391 Eastlick
Telephone: 509-335-2527
E-mail: gomulki@wsu.edu
Office Hours: by appointment (please email)

Prof. Stephen Krone (UI)
Office: 421 Brink Hall
Telephone: 208-885-6317
E-mail: krone@uidaho.edu
Office Hours: by appointment (please email)

Lectures:

Mondays from 5:10 PM to 6:25 PM in 135 College Hall at WSU
Wednesdays from 5:10 PM to 6:25 PM in 248 TLC (Teaching & Learning Center) U Idaho

Learning Outcomes:

(1) Gain exposure to, and experience with, major topics and methods in mathematical genetics;
(2) Survey classical and contemporary literature in mathematical genetics.

Text:

Evolutionary Theory: Mathematical and Conceptual Foundations by Sean H. Rice
 
list of typos for Rice

Course Format:

We plan to achieve the goals of the course through a series of instructor led "workshops" on topics in mathematical genetics during the first part of the course and student led group discussions during the second part of the course. One or two readings will usually be assigned per topic: one for background and a second for discussion.
 
For workshops, an instructor will briefly motivate the topic, outline the analyses, and summarize the main results. The class will then work through the reading(s) as a group, stopping to clarify steps, methods, or concepts that are ambiguous. Ideally, students who understand a step/method/concept will do the clarifying. Of course, the instructors will help regulate the flow of discussion and contribute lucid explanations as necessary! The instructors will also suggest homework exercises that all students are expected to attempt. For this workshop format to succeed, it is critical that every student works to understand the readings prior to class. If, in the course of reading the material, you don't understand something (e.g., a term, concept, manipulation, or technique) make a note of it and go through the remaining material as best you can. Be sure to bring your notes to class.
Student-led group discussions will cover topics chosen by students (topics - which may involve original research - must be pre-approved by the instructors). Leaders should prepare handouts and readings that their fellow students will read prior to the discussion.
Grading:
Half of the grade in this course will based on the quality of a student planned and executed group discussion during the second part of the course.  The other half of your grade will be based on in-class participation.  Your participation grade will be based on 
(a) attendance [10%],
(b) the contributions you make during discussions (including asking and answering questions, and making thoughtful comments) [10%], and
(c) attempting and solving any assigned homework problems [30%].
Reading Assignments:
Readings will be assigned from the course text and other literature.  You are expected to have read the assigned reading and participate in discussing the material.  You will be assigned four or five questions about the reading and are required to answer each of the questions.
Academic Integrity Statement (WSU):

As an institution of higher education, Washington State University is committed to principles of truth and academic honesty. All members of the University community share the responsibility for maintaining and supporting these principles. When a student enrolls in Washington State University, the student assumes an obligation to pursue academic endeavors in a manner consistent with the standards of academic integrity adopted by the University. To maintain the academic integrity of the community, the University cannot tolerate acts of academic dishonesty including any forms of cheating, plagiarism, or fabrication. Washington State University reserves the right and the power to discipline or to exclude students who engage in academic dishonesty.

Students found responsible for academic integrity violations may receive an F on the particular assignment or exam, as well as an F for the course. Repeated and/or serious offenses may result in referral to the conduct board and expulsion from WSU. For graduate students, academic integrity violations may also result in the loss of teaching and/or research assistantships.

Academic Integrity Statement and link to WSU's policy:
http://www.wsulibs.wsu.edu/plagiarism/main.html
http://conduct.wsu.edu/academic-integrity-policies-and-resources/

Students with Disabilities:
Reasonable accommodations are available for students with a documented disability. WSU students: please visit the Disability Resource Center (DRC) during the first two weeks of every semester to seek information or to qualify for accommodationss. All accommodations MUST be approved through the DRC (Washington Building, Room 217). Call 509 335 3417 to make an appointment with a disability counselor.
Campus Safety (WSU):
Please become familiar with WSU policies, which can be found at http://oem.wsu.edu/emergencies, http://alert.wsu.edu, and http://safetyplan.wsu.edu .

Back to the main course homepage.