KEVIN P. OH, PhD
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​​Concepts in Sexual Selection Theory
BioNB 4200, Dis 202

Fall 2012
MEETING TIME: Monday, 2:55pm – 4:10pm
LOCATION: W364 Seeley G. Mudd Hall
INSTRUCTOR:  Kevin Oh
                            Department of Neurobiology & Behavior
                            Cornell University
OFFICE: W319 Seeley G. Mudd Hall
OFFICE HOURS: Wednesday, 2pm – 3pm

COURSE BLOG: http://blogs.cornell.edu/sexualselectionf2012


Course Syllabus

​COURSE OVERVIEW

This course provides a survey of foundational contributions to the study of sexual selection and the evolution of secondary sexual traits. Drawing largely from the primary literature, this discussion course will examine major milestones in sexual selection theory, beginning with Darwin’s seminal contribution, through the development of formal mathematical models of sexual selection during the modern evolutionary synthesis, and the proliferation of sexual selection models at the end of the last century. The course will also discuss landmark empirical studies of sexual selection and will conclude with a consideration of persistent research challenges and special topics in sexual selection research such as, but not limited to, the genetic architecture and/or plasticity of sexual traits and preferences, influences of social networks in animal (both nonhuman and human) societies and the contribution of developmental evolutionary biology to understanding sexual trait evolution.

Outcome 1: Understanding of chief insights, historical context and scientific legacies of major contributions to modern sexual selection theory.

Outcome 2: Gain familiarity with ‘classical’ empirical sexual selection studies and associated challenges typically accompany such investigations.

Outcome 3: Develop skills in leading discussions, as well as comprehension and critical evaluation of primary scientific literature, with particular emphasis on evolutionary theoretical models. 

COURSE FORMAT

The course is structured around in-class and web-based discussions of assigned readings. Materials will be made available for download via the course blog at least one week prior to each class meeting. 

COURSE EXPECTATIONS

​Active engagement by each individual in classroom discussion is an essential component of this course format. Students are expected to come to each meeting having read and critically assessed the assigned material. In addition, students will be asked to provide comments on the readings via the course blog prior to each meeting. At least once during the semester, each student will be responsible for choosing supplementary readings and leading discussion on a selected topic. Students will also be required to attend at least one sexual selection-related seminar during the term.
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Schedule of Topics
n.b. Readings will be made available via the course blog.
DATE            TOPIC                                                                           DISCUSSION LEADER
27 Aug            Orientation, Introduction and Historical Background
3 Sept             No Class (Labor Day Holiday)
10 Sept          The Descent of Man and Selection in Relation to Sex
17 Sept           The Modern Synthesis: Fisher and O’Donald                           Joey
24 Sept           Mathematical Formalization: Lande and Kirkpatrick               Jon
1 Oct               ‘Good’ Genes & Sexy Sons                                                          Kevin
8 Oct              No Class (Fall Break)
15 Oct             Handicaps, Hamilton & Zuk                                               Mickey/Kevin
22 Oct             Genetic Compatability/Complementarity                               Maria
29 Oct             Sensory Bias, Mate Choice Copying and Learning               Andrew
5 Nov              Intrasexual Competition: Combat & Weapons                     Shailee
12 Nov            Measuring Sexual Selection, ‘Classic’ Empirical Studies      Derrick
19 Nov            Sexual Conflict                                                                              Maria
26 Nov            Contemporary Issues in Sexual Selection Research, TBD      Kevin




​Content © 2017 Kevin Oh


 
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  • ABOUT
  • research
  • teaching
  • Publications