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

Admission to the programme.

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

Work and teaching methods used in the course are lectures, self-study, presentation of texts and group work. Seminars will also be held where the students present academic texts. Students will present texts from the syllabus, encourage discussion and receive guidance on further reading.

To be eligible for the exam, the following must be approved:

• Attendance for the entire day at 1 seminar

Supervised individual written examination, 3 hours.

None

Grade scale A-F

All answers are assessed by one examiner.

An external examiner is used regularly, at a minimum of every third completion of the course. When selecting answers for external evaluation, a minimum of 10 percent of the answers shall be included, with no fewer than 5 answers. The external examiner’s assessment of the selected answers shall benefit all students.