Arizona State University1 College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
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ASM 104 -- Bones, Stones, and Human Evoution

This course is an introduction to the key concepts and discoveries in human evolutionary biology. The focus is on evolution, ecology, and anatomical adaptation and variation in the Order Primates, with particular emphasis on humans. Major sections of the class are devoted to living primates and their behavioral ecology, human and primate anatomy, genetics and the mechanisms of evolution, primate and human evolution, and adaptation and variation in modern human populations.

Practical results of taking this course may include the ability to:

1) evaluate arguments about teaching evolution

2) understand that humans have adapted to their environments and alter their environments in ways that may be detrimental to their own survival and that of other species

3) support the conservation of living apes and monkeys

4) understand the causes of genetic and endemic diseases

5) make reasoned judgments about claims regarding fossil evidence and causes of biological selection, adaptation, and variation.

This course meets the University General Studies requirements for Natural Sciences (SG).


ASM 394 -- Fossil Primates

This course is an overview of primate evolution from the Eocene through the Plio-Pleistocene in an ecological context. To be able to understand the evolutionary overview we first cover macroevolution, systematics, primate skeletal morphology, primate ecology, andextant primates. The first part of the class covers the background material and the second part explores the various radiations of primates in the past, both ecologically and phylogenetically. There is a lab component to this class in which students examine skeletal material of both extant and extinct primates.

TEXT: John G. Fleagle. 1999. Primate Adaptation and Evolution. 2nd Edition.

REQUIREMENTS: Three exams and one short research paper. The paper is usually on the fossil primate of the student's choice. Students are also expected to contribute to class discussions.

 


ASM 598 -- Zooarchaeology and Paleoecology I

This class focuses on theory and methodology of paleoecology as it relates to hominin and primate evolution. Topics covered include: evolutionary paleoecology, biogeography, community ecology, vegetation & climate, mammals as habitat indicators, ecological diversity analyses, functional morphology, species diversity, etc.

Zooarchaeology and Paleoecology II is taught by Dr. Curtis Marean.

TEXT: There is no assigned textbook, but students need a book on mammals of a particular region. Some of these may be available at the library, in my office, or other sources.

REQUIREMENTS: Bone quizes, midterm and final presentation.


ASM 591 -- Primate Paleobiology

This course covers all non-hominin evolution from the Paleocenethrough the Pleistocene. The class also provides a background in the theory and methodology of primate evolution including macroevolution, speciation, systematics, cladistics, skull and skeletal morphology, and geology/paleontology. An intensive review of extant primate diversity is also covered.

TEXT: John G. Fleagle. 1999. Primate Adaptation and Evolution. 2nd Edition.

REQUIREMENTS: Two exams, one group project, and one research paper. The research paper is presented orally in the form of a typical conference paper and written up in either American Journal of Physical Anthropology or Journal of Human Evolution format. Students must also contribute to class discussions.


ASM 591 -- Ecology and Human Evolution

This class focuses on the inter-relationship of ecology and evolution in the various lineages of our own family.

REQUIREMENTS: There are reading assignments for each class period for which students must supply at least one question, all of which become the basis for discussion. Rather than writing a paper, graduate students write a proposal for a research project to apply to granting agencies such as the Leakey Foundation or the National Science Foundation. The final length and format of the proposal depends on how much money is needed.


Hadar Paleoanthropology Field School

The School of Human Evolution, the Institute of Human Origins and the International Programs Office offer a field school opportunity in paleoanthropology at the Hadar hominin site in Ethiopia. The program includes instruction in paleoecology, faunal analysis, hominid evolution, geology and archaeology.

The field school is directed by Dr. William Kimbel (ASU) and myself. For more information visit the Hadar Paleoanthropology Web Site.


Kaye Reed Main Page

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
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School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Institute of Human Origins, Box 85287-4101, Tempe, AZ 85287-4101

Telephone: 480-727-6580

human.origins@asu.edu

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