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BIOSCI-107 - Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology - Loni Hands

Course:Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology
Professor:Loni Hands
Email:loni.hands@canyons.edu
Format:
  • Online
  • OnlineLive
Course Length:
  • 5 Week

Introduction

This course covers multiple topics in molecular and cellular biology. We will learn about and apply the scientific method, describe the structures and functions of biological molecules and cell components, explain how molecules move across membranes, discuss the importance of chemical reactions and energy conversions (especially in terms of metabolic processes), outline the steps of cellular reproduction (mitosis and meiosis), solve genetic crosses to determine the probability of inheritance of specific traits, describe the steps of the central dogma, explain how genes are regulated (as well as discuss the importance of gene regulation in development), discuss cell signaling, and describe recombinant DNA technologies.

 

We will meet via Zoom (through Canvas) for our scheduled class meetings (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 8-11:20 AM). Check that your system can handle running Zoom: Zoom system requirements for iOS, iPadOS, and Android (https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201179966-System-requirements-for-iOS-iPadOS-and-Android) OR Zoom system requirements for Windows, macOS, and Linux (https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362023-System-requirements-for-Windows-macOS-and-Linux). When connecting to Zoom, a webcam is preferred but not required.

 

All course work will be submitted to the class Canvas site. To complete the required assignments, quizzes, exams, etc., you will need a computer (some assignments can be completed using a tablet, but not exams or some labs!) - a computer is necessary for using Proctorio on exams (system requirements for Proctorio: https://proctorio.com/system-requirements).

 

You must be able to attach files to emails, upload files to Canvas, etc., including scanned images of written assignments (a free PDF converting app such as CamScanner can help with this if you do not have a scanner). Some assignments, quizzes, tests, etc. may require you to remain online for several hours at a time.

 

The best way to reach me with questions is by email or sending a message through Canvas. I can also meet with you via Zoom (online video chat) if that is a preferable mode of communication for you. 

 

I know that online classes can be challenging, so I encourage you to ask questions when you need help, either by contacting me or a classmate or by posting to the discussion forums on Canvas. I am available by email and via appointments through Zoom (on Canvas) and happy to help!

 

This course will move quickly, so it’s important to keep up with the material!

Course Description

Catalog description: Units: 4.00 (UC:CSU)

Prerequisite: CHEM-201 or CHEM-201H and MATH-070 or higher math placement. Introduces the principles of cellular form and function including: bioenergetics and metabolism, molecular structure and evolution, gene regulation, cellular anatomy and physiology, and the principles of biotechnology. 

Lecture Student Learning Outcome: Compare and contrast eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell morphology, bioenergetics, gene regulation, and cellular physiology.

Lab Student Learning Outcome: Collect, review, and analyze biological data according to scientific inquiry through the application of molecular biology techniques.

What to Expect in this Course

This is a fast paced course and there is a lot of content to cover in a short period of time. It is most beneficial to work on material each day of the week and review material regularly.

The lecture & lab components of this course will be 100% online. If you are used to face-to-face classes and prefer the live classroom environment for learning, you may find the online format harder since you will need to work through the course material on your own. You should expect to devote just as much time (if not more) to this class as you would for a face-to-face class. Be sure that you do not miss any of the live Zoom meetings during the semester because they will allow you to experience a live presentation of lab information, possible activities, and an overview of the assignments that will be due each week.  It will also give you a chance to ask me any questions you have and interact with your classmates as well.

The main method I will use to communicate with students is through Canvas announcements and Canvas email. You must check these every day and set up alerts on your phone for these messages so that you receive communications from me in a timely manner.

This class is 100% online. You will need to have access to Zoom to attend class and office hours. You will also need to download a proctoring software (Proctorio) for exams. All course work will be posted to Canvas or provided during class Zoom meetings.

If you are in need of special accommodations, you should register with the Academic Accommodation Center (AAC) (formerly DSP&S (Disabled Students Program & Services)) at COC at the beginning of the semester so that they can work with you to identify what accommodations and resources you may need to complete this course.  They will provide you with an official accommodation letter for the current semester, which you should send me a copy of by the first week of the semester.  That will ensure that your needs are met in a timely manner (see Academic Accommodation Center or Disabled Students Program & Services section below for more details).

Types of Assessments

All assignments and tests will be administered through the Canvas learning management system. You will need to be able to access proctoring software (i.e. Proctorio) and Labster virtual labs on your electronic device (see system requirements in "Textbook Information"). 

Assessments will consist of a variety of exams, quizzes, and assignments, such as worksheets, lab reports, and optional assignments. Assignments may need to be typed or handwritten and scanned (a PDF converting app such as CamScanner will work for this). Exams may contain a variety of question formats, including multiple choice, choose all that apply, fill in the blank, free response, etc.

Textbook Information

  1. Lecture textbook:
  2. Lab manual (available online on Canvas) – Must be able to print the lab manual from Canvas!
     
  3. Canvas, Proctorio, and Labster - Ensure you have access to Canvas and use the links below to determine if you meet the system requirements for Labster and Proctorio (both will be accessed through Canvas):
  4. Zoom - Ensure that you have a device that can access Zoom (see the links below).
  5. CamScanner (free version) or other PDF-converting app - There are many free PDF-converting apps that will work, but you should have one downloaded in order to upload any handwritten assignments.

Other Relevant Course Information

All students are required to attend the Zoom meeting on the first day of class so as not to lose their spot in the class to students on the waitlist.

Attendance is required per college policy, which states, “Any student absent for any reason for more than 10% of the class meetings may be dropped by the instructor prior to 75% of the course.” For this course, regular “attendance” will refer to completing the weekly lecture and lab homework assignments and attending the live Zoom lectures each week. You should communicate with me right away if you anticipate a disruption in your schedule that will impact your ability to complete the assigned coursework by the due date. If you miss one week’s worth of course work without contacting me, you may be dropped from the course for “non-attendance.”

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

  • CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
  • CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 01/02/2022 Sub#: 1199