Professor: Quevedo Course format: Lecture w/section Number of respondents: 7 Total Enrollment: 8 Class Composition: Froshs: 1 Sophs: 2 Jrs: 2 Srs: 2 Concs: 5 Non-Concs: 1 Don't Know: 1

Instructor Average: 3.62 Course Average: 2.99

Have you ever wondered about the origin of life? Then consider taking 'Evolution and Development.' The course aims to provide its students with an understanding of the study of evolution and development of life on earth. The formal prerequisite for this class was BI 20, but students pointed out that some knowledge of embryology and evolutionary or developmental biology would also have been helpful.

Professor Quevedo received rather negative reviews from his students. Respondents noted that although it was apparent that the professor was enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the subject, his method of delivering the material to the students was ineffective. Students complained that it was difficult to follow the lectures because the professor rambled quite often and the structure was very disorganized. Some respondents criticized the professor for being insensitive to the students' level of understanding. However, many students thanked the professor for being considerate and flexible; he was even willing to change exam dates at the students' request.

Respondents indicated that they put in a significant amount of effort into the class ­ on average, 6 hours of work per week. The course load consisted of copious reading assignments (primary literature and articles), 4 exams, and a paper. Students felt that the readings were very dry and dense, and a significant number of respondents were even discouraged by the immense bulk of the reading required. They suggested that some of the readings be trimmed down to allow for more focus. In addition, student complained about the inconsistency of the exam format; they stated that they never knew what to expect. Classes were held during Reading Period.

When asked whether they were glad to have taken the course, respondents gave mixed answers. Some were glad because of the new knowledge they gained about history of evolution and development. However, some did not enjoy this class and thought that it might have been better with another instructor. They advise that one should take this class only if he or she is interested in the subject.

View BI/0132 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.