Chris Floyd's Teaching Page

Research page | CV(pdf)

BIOL 110, Ecology and Evolution. Introduction to the principles, patterns,
and processes that have shaped the evolution of organisms and their interactions
with the environment.

Blue bus in winter

BIOL 211, Organismal Form and Function. Using concepts introduced
in the first two courses in the introductory biology sequence, students will
further develop their laboratory, reading, and critical thinking skills by
learning about and experimenting on plants and animals.

BIOL 365, Animal Behavior. Study of animal behavior with emphasis on
evolutionary approaches; topics include feeding adaptations, predator-prey
interactions, habitat selection, communication, sociality, and mating strategies.
Students work together on lab/field exercises and conduct a semi-independent
research project.

BIOL 340, Ornithology. Introduction to avian biology, including taxonomy,
evolution, reproduction, physiology, flight, communication, behavioral ecology,
and population census techniques (e.g., bird banding). Lab and field identification
of Wisconsin bird species. Students also conduct semi-independent research projects.
Bird in hand

BIOL 410, Mammalogy. Introduction to biology of mammals, including
taxonomy, evolution, thermoregulation, communication, behavioral ecology, and
field techniques (e.g., tracking and live- trapping). Lab/field identification of
Wisconsin species. Studentswill also carry out a semi-independent research project.


Summary of teaching philosophy

1. Give the students the opportunity to discover, on their own or in small groups, the
basic principles of the subject matter through hands-on field and lab exercises.
2. Give interactive, visually dynamic lectures that provide a structural framework for
understanding course material.
3. Give the students the opportunity to carry out and present the results of scientific
research through group projects and presentations. This experience is especially
essential to those who plan to pursue graduate school.
4. Provide opportunity to learn basic lab, field, and analytical techniques that will
help students land jobs in a variety of biological fields, including environmental
consulting and wildlife management.

horse barn