Teaching
Integrative Biology Courses
Mason offers a variety of classes and educational opportunities for students interested in biology and species conservation. Below are some of Dr. Forkner's current course offerings.
Reproductive Strategies
This course is an introduction to evolutionary theory in the behavioral ecology of sex. Lectures begin with discussions of the evolution of sex and gender and then focus on topics such as mate choice, hermaphrodism, courtship displays, polygamy, homosexuality, territoriality, sexual cannibalism, parental care, and sperm competition. This course is critical for students interested in species conservation because it provides a strong background in animal behavior and mating strategies for both vertebrate and invertebrate animals. This courses is an advanced seminar in which students are expected to discuss & critique primary literature. (BIOL 457 - Spring Semester of odd-numbered years)
Conservation Biology
This course is critical for graduate students, particularly those with an interest in terrestrial plant and animal conservation issues. Both graduate and undergraduate courses provide an introduction to the scientific basis of conservation, including topics such as biological diversity, invasive species, extinction, habitat fragmentation, and climate change. This an advanced class in which students are expected to discuss & critique primary literature. (BIOL/EVPP 318/518 - Fall Semester of even-numbered years)
Pharmacognosy
This class introduces students to the scientific methods involved in the discovery of drugs of natural origins, including plant, animal, fungal, and microorganismal compounds. Lectures examine a variety of biologically active compounds and present their ecological role, evolutionary origins, and published assessments of their medical relevance. Students will evaluate both known and potential compounds through primary journal readings, literature reviews and analyses, discussions, and guided independent research. Students will learn the principles of evidence-based medicine, will hear from professionals within the field, and may participate in the first steps in that process: laboratory testing of putative compounds. Both Biology and Chemistry majors are encouraged to enroll. (BIOL 417 - Spring semester of even-numbered years)
Tropical Ecosystems
This course is a basic, yet thorough, introduction to the abiotic and biotic factors that define tropical habitats and focuses on a cross-continental comparison of the flora and fauna of rainforests. This course may be taken for four credits if students register for the optional laboratory (BIOL 440), where students travel to Costa Rica to gain exposure to a variety of field research techniques in wet and dry tropical Central American environments. (BIOL 443/543 - Spring Semester of even-numbered years)
Insect Biology
This course focuses on the ecology, evolution, and human-relevance of insects and arthropods. Topics include medical and forensic entomology, urban and agricultural entomology, and pest management. The course includes a laboratory component and culminates in a Insect Cook-off. This course is critical for students who wish to pursue graduate work or medical careers in tropical medicine. (BIOL 332 - Fall Semester of odd-numbered years)