Navigating the Research University
Instructors:
Kenneth Burtis, Dean, College of Biological Sciences
Catrina Wagner, Academic Coordinator, Student Housing
Description: The goal of this course is to examine a number of issues that face first-year students (particularly those majoring in a bioligical science) as they begin their study at a research university. Topics to be examined include: (1) understanding the mission of the research university and the student’s role within this mission, (2) understanding what it means to be part of an intellectual community of scholars, (3) understanding the educational impact of the confluence of diverse perspectives, (4) understanding the various campus cultures (i.e., faculty, staff and student) and their interactions, (5) determining the benefits of an undergraduate education at a research university in meeting the students’ goals, and (6) determining the skills and knowledge that students need to be successful, both inside and outside the classroom, and recognizing the campus resources that assist in this endeavor.
Format: The seminar will meet one hour per week for the term. The time will be divided between informal lectures, discussion, and brief student presentations. Reading material will be provided. There is no text for the course. Grading: Students will prepare two 1-3 page papers on topics to be chosen in consultation with the instructor. The course grade will be based on the quality of their written and oral presentations (2/3), and on the frequency and quality of their participation in class discussion (1/3).
About the Instructors: Dr. Burtis is a member of the faculty in the Section of Molecular and Cellular Biology, and is also Dean of the College of Biological Sciences. His research interests focus on DNA repair and genomics, using Drosophila as a model organism. He has taught lecture and laboratory courses in Genetics, Molecular Genetics, Developmental Genetics and Genomics, and has been at UC Davis since 1989.
Catrina Wagner is an Academic Coordinator in Student Housing, specifically for the Cuarto residence hall area. She earned her B.A. in Psychology and Master of Education degree from Ohio University in College Student Personnel. In her role as Academic Coordinator, she interacts with first-year students and assists them in being successful in this new academic arena as well as the overall transition into University life. She has co-taught several Freshman Seminars and has been at UC Davis for 10 years.