PSYK3500 Evolution and Behavior Course description

The course is an introduction to how theories on evolution and behaviour analysis can explain the behaviour of animals and humans. The course covers key topics in modern evolutionary biology, behavioural ecology and selection in relation to consequences. This includes an introduction to topics from biology, evolutionary psychology, anthropology and behaviour analysis views on selection and culture

None.

After completing the course, the student is expected to have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and competence:

Knowledge

The student can

• discuss similarities and differences between selection in evolutionary biology and behaviour analysis
• explain interactions between selection principles at the different levels
• describe basic principles and theories in modern evolution biology
• describe key topics in behavioural ecology
• describe heredity and key topics in modern genetics
• describe the significance of natural selection to the nervous system’s structure and function
• describe basic research areas in evolutionary psychology

Skills

The student can

• use principles of cultural selection in relation to changes in organisations and groups
• illustrate how specific behaviour can be explained from an evolutionary perspective
• reflect on topics and theories in evolution and behaviour

General competence

The student

• has insight into the biological basis of behaviour in animals, including humans
• can describe selection as an explanatory model both orally and in writing
• is familiar with new ideas and innovation processes in behaviour analysis as a holistic discipline based on selection sciences

Project examination, consisting of a group assignment with up to 7 students, based on a case with a health claim in the media. The assignment will include the levels of the EBP model. The assignment is submitted as a written paper of 1500 words (+/- 10 prosent) according to further specified criteria. 

Each group decides whether their assignment is to be submitted in Norwegian, Swedish, Danish or English.

Resit exam: If the assignment is given the grade fail, the group can submit a revised version once.  

If this attempt fails, the group is entitled to a third and final attempt. In a third attempt, the group must choose a new health claim and submit a new examination paper. 

The following required coursework must be approved before the students can take the supervised written examination:

• minimum 80 % participation at compulsory teaching activities
• presentation of academic texts
• submission of three, individual, written assignments (max. 900 words)

Supervised individual written examination, 4 hours.

None

Grade scale A-F

One internal and one external examiner