Cognitive Science 0179 - Animal Behavior: Theory and Field Methods

This course will explore a selection of the main theoretical ideas and methods of the scientific study of animal behavior. We will explore functional and evolutionary bases of animal behavior, including altruism, social behavior, reproductive behavior, mating systems, parental care, the influence of neural systems on behavior, and animal cognition. We will also focus in detail on animal senses, which we will learn about through reading the new book "An Immense World". Students will also put into practice some of the ways that scientists observe, record and measure behavior in the natural world, through hands on work at the Hampshire farm. Keywords:animal behavior,animal senses,Hampshire farm

Students should expect to spend 8 hours weekly on work and preparation outside of class time. Libraray Materials:An Immense World by Ed Yong. I am going to encourage them to buy this book, but I will also want to put 1-2 copies on reserve in the libary Books:An Immense World by Ed Yong; cost $22.49 ISBN:0593133234