Human Origins:  An Introduction to Biological Anthropology

ANTH 161 Honors– Fall 2020

Lecture (Gambrell 412)
H01, H02 Tuesday/Thursday 10:05-11:20
H03, H04 Tuesday/Thursday 11:40-12:55

Labs
All remote, asynchronous

Dr. Kelly Goldberg
Gambrell 419
Goldbeke@mailbox.sc.edu
Office Hours: Tuesday 1:00-3:00 and by appointment or Skype
(in all email communication please include “ANTH 161” in subject line)
Course Website: anth161.uofsccreate.org

Academic Bulletin Description
An introduction to the science of biological anthropology, a subfield of anthropology that emphasizes a focus on humanity and its origin from a biological perspective, employing laboratory components to complement and reinforce lecture materials.

Course Content:
This four-credit course satisfies the University of South Carolina Carolina Core Scientific Literacy requirement for a Four Credit Lab Science Course.  Carolina Core-related material is underlined in this syllabus to highlight the Carolina Core content.  This course meets for two one hour and fifteen-minute lectures and a required one and one-half hour lab each week.

The course is an introduction to the science of biological anthropology. Biological anthropology is a subfield of anthropology that emphasizes a focus on humanity and its origin from a biological perspective.  As a subfield of Anthropology, biological anthropology recognizes the complex interaction of biology and culture in the evolutionary development of the human species.  In this class we study the basic concepts and mechanisms of evolution and the evolutionary history of humankind from primate beginnings to anatomically and behaviorally modern Homo sapiens. The course is divided into 3 sections: 1) the science of anthropology and the models and mechanisms of human evolution; 2) modern human variation and adaptation, and our relationships to non-human primates; and 3) the origin, development, and dispersal of humans using evidence from the fossil record (paleoanthropology) and archaeological remains. Along the way, it illustrates the ways in which anthropologists learn about the past and how we can use our knowledge of the past to understand the present.

The most basic goal of this course is to become better informed as to how scientific anthropological approaches contribute to our understanding of what it means to be a member of the human species. We are a product of our past as well as present, and this course hopes to show how understanding our biological and cultural history (through the theory and method of the science of anthropology) can provide us with a better understanding of humanity.   

Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this course.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will

• Understand basic anthropological and biological terminology as it relates to non-human primate studies, human origins and evolution, and the development of human culture
• Understand the models and mechanisms for human biological change
• Develop an understanding of the diversity of non-human primates and their behavior using direct observation of living primates
• Appreciate the importance of understanding non-human primate behavior for understanding ancestral humans
• Demonstrate a basic understanding of current issues and debates surrounding the origins of modern humans
• Develop and demonstrate a clear understanding of current scientific knowledge about the human lineage
• Understand the relationship between human biology and culture
• Understand the fact that race is a cultural construct, and not a biological characteristic
• Explore ethical issues surrounding the study of humans and non-human primates from a biological perspective
• Employ technologies to identify and characterize the distinct patterns of human tool use versus carnivore predation
• Use biological anthropological methods and theories to identify, measure, and analyze primate and human variation in the past and present
• Develop and test hypotheses to interpret fossil and modern primate and hominid skeletal material.

Course Readings:
There is no assigned textbook for this course.  There will be various readings posted to Blackboard that you will be required to read. All readings will be posted at least 1 week before they are due.

Blended Course Format

This course is being offered as a blended, or hybrid course, meaning that some of the work in this course will occur online in Blackboard, and some will occur in person.  Online activities and in-class activities are designed to build on each other.  Active participation in the online activities and completion of all courework is required in this course.  In Blackboard, you will interact with course content, me and your classmates in a variety of online activities. 

The typical structure in Blackboard will consist of learning modules, which include:

• Short Videos/Powerpoint lectures
• Podcasts
• Readings
• Online Discussions
• Quizzes
• Field Exercises
• Written Exercises

This course will meet face-to-face two times per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays).  The typical activities in the face-to-face classroom will include discussing major concepts, interacting with guest speakers, engaging with me and your classmates in question and answer sessions, practicing difficult key concepts and completing exams. 

Course Communication
I will be communicating with you regarding grades and assignments. If you need to get in touch with me, the best method is via email. Generally, I will reply to emails within 24 hours, excepting weekends. You may also post questions pertaining to the course on the Blackboard Discussion Board. These questions will be answered within 24 hours.

Announcements will be posted to this course whenever necessary. If there is any other information I think is important, I will send it to your email address you have in Blackboard. It is your responsibility to ensure that your email account works properly in order to receive email.

Below is how you check your email address in Blackboard:

• Access blackboard.sc.edu
• Click your name on the main Blackboard navigation panel on the left
• Review your email address.  By default, Blackboard uses your university-issued email address

Your email address in Blackboard coincides with your preferred university email. If you are unsure of your preferred email, check your account (myaccount.sc.edu). For more information on setting your preferred university email, please see the How To Change Your Primary University Email Address (https://scprod.service-now.com/sp?id=kb_article_view&sysparm_article=KB0011464) Knowledge Base article.

Course Assistant
As this course is transitioned to a hybrid format, I have student assistant working with me this semester. Hanna Waltz is a Biology major and Anthropology minor, and took this class last fall. She is familiar with the labs (both the prior in-person versions and the new digital labs) and is happy to assist with any lab-related problems you encounter. You can reach Hanna at hewaltz@email.sc.edu.

Technology Requirements

Online lectures through VoiceThread, and PowerPoint will be provided in Blackboard. Therefore, you must have access to the Internet to view/hear lectures. No special software is required.

The lecture presentations, links to articles, assignments, quizzes, and rubrics are located on Blackboard. To participate in learning activities and complete assignments, you will need:

• Access to a working computer that has a current operating system with updates installed, plus speakers or headphones to hear lecture presentations;
• Reliable Internet access and a UofSC email account;
• A current Internet browser that is compatible with Blackboard (Google Chrome is the recommended browser for Blackboard);
• Microsoft Word as your word processing program; and
• Reliable data storage for your work, such as a USB drive or Office365 OneDrive cloud storage.

If your computer does not have Microsoft Word, Office 365 ProPlus package is available to you free of charge and allows you to install Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access on up to 5 PCs or Macs and Office apps on other mobile devices including tablets. Office 365 also includes unlimited cloud storage on OneDrive. To download Office 365 ProPlus, log into your student (University) email through a web browser, choose Settings (top right corner), and select software. If you have further questions or need help with the software, please contact the Service Desk.

Technical Support

If you have problems with your computer, technology, IT-related questions, support, including Blackboard, please contact the Division of Information Technology (DoIT) Service Desk at (803) 777-1800 or submit an online request through the Self Service Portal or visit the Carolina Tech Zone. The Service Desk is open Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Eastern Daylight Time). If you are located in the Columbia, SC area, the Thomas Cooper Library at UofSC has computers for you to use in case you encounter computer issues/problems. If you are not located in the Columbia, SC area, most regional campuses and public libraries have computers for public use.

Course Assignments and Grading
This class includes of a variety of means to evaluate student performance and mastery of the material. 

There will be three scheduled exams and weekly comprehension quizzes administered throughout the course. These exams and quizzes will evaluate student comprehension of the key aspects of biological anthropology method and theory that have been explored in the prior weeks’ lectures, labs, and assignments, and will incorporate both written and visual components. The comprehension quizzes will be mostly short answer and fill in the blank questions, intended to encourage you to process all the course materials. Each student’s lowest comprehension quiz score will be dropped. There will be one exam after approximately each third of the course, and one cumulative final exam.

The lab component will include 12 labs, which consist of lab reports, genetic exercises, discussions of research methodology, primate anatomy, the study of modern and ancestral human skeletal anatomy, and virtual observation of primates. Lab grades will be based upon thorough and successful completion of lab assignments, participation via lab reflections, readings, and accuracy of responses. All labs are structured to be completed remotely and asynchronously, and will be due by 11:59pm every Sunday evening.

Project 1: Students will prepare a lesson for high school students on the intersection of biological human variation and cultural concepts of race. Students will work on this project in small groups, and will present their lessons to the class.

Project 2:  Students will employ the field observation techniques of primatology to study the variation and behaviors of a variety of living primate species at the Riverbanks Zoo.  Students will compare observation techniques to record and interpret primate behavior. 

Project 3:  Students will create a digital museum-type display, including a visual phylogeny of hominine ancestors, and an in-depth focus on a species of their choosing. This digital display may take the form of a website, zoom/voicethread presentation, Prezi, etc. Research for this project must include a review of both primary and secondary sources.

There will be several homework assignments throughout the semester. These will vary in form, but will be comprised of video questions, preparations for guest speakers, practice exercises, blog posts, etc. All homework assignments will be announced at least one week before they are due.

Late work policy: Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all assignments will be due as hard copies at the beginning of class on the due date listed.  LATE MATERIALS WILL BE ASSESSED A GRADE PENALTY; 5% deduction if turned in late on the due date, 10% deduction for every day after. Reading comprehension questions will not be accepted after the beginning of class.

Please plan accordingly, and complete these assignments in advance of their deadlines to ensure any unanticipated circumstances do not result in a missed assignment. User error does not qualify you for any kind of makeup or retake opportunity. Be Careful: The clock on your computer may be different than the clock in Blackboard. If the clock is different by one second, you will be locked out of the assignment or quiz. Plan accordingly. I recommend that you submit your assignments, quizzes, and exams well before deadline.

The guaranteed breakdown is as follows:

90% (635 points) or more = A
87% (613 points) or more = B+; 80% (564 points) or more = B  
77% (543 points) or more = C+; 70% (494 points) or more = C
67% (472 points) or more = D+; 60% (423 points) or more = D
Below 59% (422) points = F

Academic Success

Successful learners in a blended course:

1. Do not procrastinate;
2. Are open to sharing professional experiences online;
3. Enhance online discussions;
4. Have good written communication skills;
5. Use proactive communication;
6. Are self-motivated and self-disciplined;
7. Have a commitment to learning;
8. Have critical thinking and decision-making skills;
9. Believe quality learning can take place in an online environment; and
10. Have good time management skills.

Attendance Policy: 
Um, Let’s just see how this goes this semester….

Please come to class! Weekly comprehension quizzes will include material covered in class discussions, so you will be best able to answer those questions if you have attended class.

Note on classroom courtesy
Most students who are taking this class have at least some interest in the subject matter.  With any luck at all, students will leave the course with a greater appreciation of the way biological anthropology contributes to our knowledge of the human condition.  Therefore, I expect all students to attend the class in a spirit of learning, openness, and curiosity. A cooperative and courteous classroom atmosphere pays dividends to all students who attend.  Reading the paper, facebooking, talking, coming into class late or leaving early, etc., are not courteous behaviors and will not be tolerated.  Neither is it courteous to leave your trash in the classrooms:  pick up after yourself.  Turn off your cell phones!!!  Cell phones must be put away OUT OF SIGHT during class.  I will not take attendance (but daily labs cannot be made up).  I assume that you all recognize the positive correlation between attendance, timely reading of the assignments, and academic success.

Portfolios
I want to also remind you that every anthropology undergraduate major and graduate student is now encouraged to keep an electronic portfolio of your course papers and other work that reflects your scholarship in Anthropology at USC.  You will be encouraged to turn in this e-portfolio upon graduation.  It will be kept confidential on a dedicated server in the department, and will make it much more convenient for you and the faculty in the future when you contact the department to request letters of recommendation.

Policy on Academic Dishonesty
You are expected to practice the highest possible standards of academic integrity. Any deviation from this expectation will result in a minimum academic penalty of your failing the assignment, and will result in additional disciplinary measures. This includes improper citation of sources, using another student’s work, and any other form of academic misrepresentation. Plagiarism and cheating will not be tolerated. Cheating of any sort will not be tolerated.  It is your responsibility to ensure that no one is able to copy answers from your quizzes or exams.  Furthermore, the projects are expected to be your work, and not the work of more than one person.  If cheating is suspected, both the copier and the person from whom the answer was copied will be held responsible.  Cell phones may not be out on your desk during exams and quizzes.  If you need a calculator you must use a traditional calculator.  Please review the USC policies and student resources at the USC Office of Academic Integrity http://www.housing.sc.edu/academicintegrity/default.html.

Special Needs Accommodations
Students with documented disabilities requiring special consideration need to register with the Office of Student Disability Services the first week of class: http://www.sa.sc.edu/sds/osds/

Phone: 777-6142, TDD 777-6744
Email: sasds@mailbox.sc.edu

You may also stop by LeConte College Room 112A. All accommodations must be approved through the Office of Student Disability Services.

Student Success Center

In partnership with UofSC faculty, the Student Success Center (SSC) offers a number of programs to assist you in better understanding your course material and to aid you on your path to success. SSC programs are facilitated by professional staff, graduate students, and trained undergraduate peer leaders who have previously excelled in their courses. Resources available to you in this course may include:

• Peer Tutoring: You can make a one-on-one appointment with a Peer Tutor (www.sc.edu/success).  Drop-in Tutoring and Online Tutoring may also be available for this course. Visit their website for a full schedule of times, locations, and courses.
• Supplemental Instruction (SI): SI Leaders are assigned to specific sections of courses and hold three weekly study sessions. Sessions focus on the most difficult content being covered in class. The SI Session schedule is posted through the SSC website each week and will also be communicated in class by the SI Leader.
• Peer Writing: Improve your college-level writing skills by bringing writing assignments from any of your classes to a Peer Writing Tutor. Similar to Tutoring, you can visit the website to make an appointment, and to view the full schedule of available drop-in hours and locations.
• Success Consultations: In Success Consultations, SSC staff assist you in developing study skills, setting goals, and connecting to a variety of campus resources. Throughout the semester, I may communicate with the SSC via Success Connect, an online referral system, regarding your progress in the course. If contacted by the SSC, please schedule a Success Consultation. Success Connect referrals are not punitive and any information shared by me is confidential and subject to FERPA regulations.

SSC services are offered to all UofSC undergraduates at no additional cost. You are invited to call the Student Success Hotline at (803) 777-1000, visit the SSC website (www.sc.edu/success), or stop by the SSC in the Thomas Cooper Library on the Mezzanine Level to check schedules and make appointments. 

Writing Center

Writing Center (http://artsandsciences.sc.edu/write/university-writing-center)

This course has many of writing assignments. The University Writing Center is an important resource you should use! It’s open to help any UofSC student needing assistance with a writing project at any stage of development. The main Writing Center is in Byrnes 703.

University Library Resources

University Libraries Resources (sc.edu/libraries)

• University Libraries has access to books, articles, subject specific resources, citation help, and more. If you are not sure where to start, please Ask a Librarian!  Assistance is available at sc.edu/libraries/ask. 
• Remember that if you use anything that is not your own writing or media (quotes from books, articles, interviews, websites, movies – everything) you must cite the source in MLA (or other appropriate and approved) format.

Blackboard and Technology

Blackboard and Technology (https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/division_of_information_technology/end_user_services/available_technology_resources/)

As a student in this course, you have access to support from the Division of Information Technology (DoIT) for Blackboard and computer issues. The service desk can be reached at 803-777-1800.

Counseling Services

Counseling Services (https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/student_health_services/medical-services/counseling-and-psychiatry/index.php): The University offers counseling and crisis services as well as outreach services, self-help, and frequently asked questions.

Academic Integrity

You are expected to practice the highest possible standards of academic integrity. Any deviation from this expectation will result in a minimum academic penalty of your failing the assignment, and will result in additional disciplinary measures. This includes improper citation of sources, using another student’s work, and any other form of academic misrepresentation.

The first tenet of the Carolinian Creed is, “I will practice personal and academic integrity.”

Below are some websites for you to visit to learn more about University policies:

Carolinian Creed (http://www.sa.sc.edu/creed)

Academic Responsibility (http://www.sc.edu/policies/staf625.pdf)

Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity (https://www.sa.sc.edu/academicintegrity/)

Information Security Policy and Standards (https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/division_of_information_technology/security/policy/universitypolicy/)

Plagiarism

Using the words or ideas of another as if they were one’s own is a serious form of academic dishonesty. If another person’s complete sentence, syntax, key words, or the specific or unique ideas and information are used, one must give that person credit through proper citation.

Class Conduct/Netiquette

Professionalism will be expected at all times. Because the university classroom is a place designed for the free exchange of ideas, we must show respect for one another in all circumstances. We will show respect for one another by exhibiting patience and courtesy in our exchanges. Appropriate language and restraint from verbal attacks upon those whose perspectives differ from your own is a minimum requirement. Courtesy and kindness is the norm for those who participate in my class.

Our discussion board is a way for you to share your ideas and learning with your colleagues in this class. We do this as colleagues in learning, and the Discussion Board is meant to be a safe and respectful environment for us to conduct these discussions.

Some Netiquette Rules:

• Treat one another with respect. It will be expected that we will not attack one another personally for holding different opinions.
• Do not use all CAPITAL LETTERS in emails or discussion board postings. This is considered “shouting” and is seen as impolite or aggressive.
• Begin emails with a proper salutation (Examples: Dr. Name; Ms. Name; Hello Professor Name; Good afternoon Mr. Name). Starting an email without a salutation or a simple “Hey” is not appropriate.
• When sending an email, please include a detailed subject line. Additionally, make sure you reference the course number (Ex. ENGL 287) in the message and sign the mail with your name.
• Use proper grammar, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization. Text messaging language is not acceptable.
• Use good taste when communicating. Profanity should be avoided.
• Re-Read, think, and edit your message before you click “Send/Submit/Post.”

Please remember when posting to be respectful and courteous to your colleagues, and limit your posts to discussions of this course and its assignments.

Laptop/Smartphone Policy

The use of laptops and smartphones is allowed only when it is required for course assignments.  Please place your laptop under your seat during class.  Cellphones should be placed on silent and should be put away in your pocket or bag.  If there is a serious need to leave your phone on vibrate (such as a family emergency), please let me know.  If you happen to leave the class to accept a phone call, I will have advanced knowledge of the potential emergency.

Incomplete Grades

Incompletes will be granted only in accordance with university policy.  A grade of ‘I’ (Incomplete) may be assigned if you are unable to complete some portion of the assigned course work because of an unanticipated illness, accident, work-related responsibility, family hardship or verified learning disability.  An incomplete grade is not intended to give you additional time to complete course assignments or extra credit unless there is indication that the specified circumstances prevented you from completing course assignments on time.

Copyright/Fair Use Statement

I will cite and/or reference any materials that I use in this course that I do not create.  You, as students, are expected to not distribute any of these materials, resources, quizzes, tests, homework assignments, etc. (whether graded or ungraded).