Educational Philosophy
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I envision a dynamic learning community of students and faculty that analyze information critically for the betterment of the student population, Roger Williams University and society, I encourage my students to pursuit the unknown and support their claims with evidence. The scientific method properly learned, promotes rational thinking where an educated graduate is a better citizen when voting, running for office or thinking about sensitive issues that include stem-cell research, DNA manipulation, gender orientation, international or religious conflicts. I encourage venues that promote diversity and equality for all, through the advancement of humanistic values. I believe that a Roger Williams graduate ought to be a lifetime seeker of knowledge and a citizen engaged in improving peoples' quality of life around the world.
BIO340 Biotechnology and BIO340 Lab
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The manipulation/analysis of molecular material from microbes to eukaryotic organisms generate the revolutionary field of biotechnology. Students explore how molecular and engineering principles integrate to generate biotechnological applications; analyze new scientific discoveries to design experiments for potential biotechnological uses; evaluate the implications and applications of biotechnology, including ethical considerations. It is an overview of biotechnology in forensics, human health, marine sciences/aquaculture, & crop/food improvement. Students are trained in commonly used biotech techniques.
BIO230 Microbiology and BIO230L
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BIO230 has an interdisciplinary approach that helps students understand the impact that microorganisms have in daily life. Group exercises, a research paper and a class presentation are combined to ensure that students grasp the co-evolutionary processes that have shaped and continue to influence the interaction between parasites, symbionts and hosts. The course will contrast the classic “evolutionary arms race” with a modern ecological view to discuss novel alternatives in the management of infectious diseases.
BIO231 Bioethics: Life, Health and the Environment
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The ethical, legal, and social implications of discoveries in biological research, environmental issues and technological applications generate discussions between scientists, politicians, lawyers, clergy and citizens throughout the world. Bioethics is a comprehensive interdisciplinary course about biomedical and environmental legal and ethical practice. Students will discuss the conflicts that arise in society that biologists/biotechnologists face when working in biotechnology, human and animal health, environmental health and ethical research practices in basic/applied science. Through critical thinking and “real case” scenarios students will be able to reach an appropriate course of action.
CORE441 Disease and Society COVID-19 Fall 2020
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Throughout history disease epidemics have impacted human societies. In this course students explore human pandemics - using COVID-19 - as the current example; how it has impacted our life and livelihoods. Students will compare the scientific, cultural, social, economic differences between the developed and developing world and analyze how COVID-19 has influenced art, literature, music around the world. By comparing COVID-19 to past pandemics, students will evaluate how societies try to regain control and bring order to the confusion that disease causes in human populations.