Information on Graber Neufeld Courses

....Concepts in Biology

Introducing biology by studying how science is done in the context of some important current biological issues

Concepts in Biology is the first course taken by majors in the Biology department, including majors in Environmental Sustainability (a joint program with Applied Social Sciences). Unlike a traditional introductory biology course which focuses on content, this course is designed to focus on biology and science as a process, which has implications for society. Thus, we spend more time studying topics such as the nature of science, the relationship between science and faith, and how specific biology issues are important for society. Our focused topics are the human genome, evolution, and infectious diseases (or invasive species, depending on the year).

For a more in-depth explanation of the course, view the 2017 syllabus for Concepts in Biology, and the detailed schedule from the course management system (Moodle)

Natural History of the Shenandoah Valley....

In-depth study of the local land, flora, and fauna

This upper-level course examines the natural history of our local context--the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. The course has four sections: sense of place, earth science, plants, and animals. Each section works towards combining broader scientific principles and knowledge with local examples. In the tradition of naturalists, students acquire the background to recognize and interpret the natural environment here in the valley.

For a more in-depth explanation of the course, view the 2018 syllabus for Natural History, and the detailed schedule from the course management system (Moodle)

....Environmental Toxicology

Studying "What Matters and What Doesn't" (and why that is) in the world of toxins and the environment

This course is about figuring out how we decide when toxins are actually harmful and when they aren't. Students focus on learning how we decide when a substance is sufficiently harmful in the environment that we ought to do something about it. This course is more about applied science than many of our other courses. The goal is to learn how science is (and can be) of direct benefit to societies around the world. A key component of the course is performing an in-depth risk assessment.

For a more in-depth explanation of the course, view the 2015 syllabus for Environmental Toxicology, and the detailed schedule from the course management system (Moodle)

Bolivia & the Galapagos....

- Cross-cultural Understandings

- Environmental Sustainability of the Andean Region

In May/June 2013, fifteen students joined us for a six-week journey through Bolivia and the Galapagos. This EMU cross-cultural trip focused on deepening the understanding of Andean cultures, in addition to gaining first-hand experience in issues of social and environmental sustainability in the cross-cultural context. There were three parts to our trip (click on links for pictures):