Dinosaurs and Their Relatives (EAS G114). Introduction to paleontology and geology from the perspective of the clade Dinosauria. Introduction to the scientific process, morphology, phylogenetics, stratigraphy and geochronology, and Earth history.
Natural History of Coral Reefs (EAS E341/E700). This course addresses the evolutionary history of reef ecosystems through geologic time, inclusive of reef composition, global distribution, modern reef development, conservation and management practices, and the persistence of the reef ecosystem through climate change scenarios. Topics include biologic, ecologic and geologic principles and processes as they pertain to coral reef ecosystems.
Invertebrate Paleontology (EAS E411). This course introduces the structure, classification, habitats, geologic history and significance of the invertebrate phyla. Students learn the application of biologic principles and the use of invertebrate fossils in the study of Earth’s history, the origin of life and the early fossil record, approaches of taxonomy, chemistry of fossils, ecology of ancient life, and the use of fossils to measure geologic time.
Vertebrate Paleontology (EAS E412 / E512). This course introduces the biological and geological principles of studying vertebrate evolution in the context of Earth history, including morphology, phylogeny, taxonomy, evolution, biomechanics, biogeography, paleoenvironments, and stratigraphic history.
Geometric Morphometrics (EAS E562). This course is a practical, applied introduction to geometric morphometrics. Students learn to collect, analyze, and interpret geometric morphometric data. Shape theory and methods are covered, including Procrustes superimposition and its statistical implications, analysis of curves and outlines, and Monte Carlo modeling of shape.
Problems in Zooarchaeology (ANTH P425). This course combines group discussions of zooarchaeological theory and case studies with practical, hands-on group projects using WRAZL specimens. Students learn basic skeletal anatomy by inventorying curated skeletal specimens, p participate in animal carcass processing sessions, and have the option to do a laboratory-based research project in lieu of a final paper (students in Fall 2022 worked on size estimation of Sheepshead fish remains and re-designing WRAZL’s public display cases).
Faunal Analysis (ANTH P426). This course introduces students to zooarchaeological analysis and makes heavy use of WRAZL specimens. Students learn basic skeletal anatomy of a wide range of animal groups (mammals, birds, fish, etc.), take part in an animal carcass processing workshop, and conduct a semester-long research project using archaeological animal remains.
Prehistoric Diet and Nutrition (ANTH P380). Professor and 20 undergraduate students visited the WRAZL lab to examine specimens.
Traditional East Asian Civilizations (EALC E251). Instructor and 20 undergraduate students visited the WRAZL lab to examine specimens.
Capstone in Food Studies (ANTH A650). Graduate students visited WRAZL for specimen examination.