Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

This section has a required live Zoom session each week on Thursdays, 9:00 AM - 10:50 AM.

If we did not descend from chimpanzees, where did we come from?

In this class, you will learn about biological anthropology, human evolution and human diversity. We cover scientific evolution and encourage students to reflect on their understandings of human origins from their own background. We draw on material from archaeological studies, modern genetics and primate behavior studies. You will learn about a many different clues that give insight into human evolution including fossil records, artifacts, molecular evidence, environmental data, as well as studies of human adaptation and diversity in present and past human populations.  This course fulfills general education requirements in social science and can be transferred to most four-year colleges and universities.

Recognizing that students come in with different previous learning in evolution and biology, we review the biological and evolution concepts needed to succeed in the class. Since it impacts people's ideas about evolution, we consider the history of controversies around evolution in schools. Our exploration of primates includes monkeys and apes as well as a survey of fossil ancestral species to humans. We consider how exciting new discoveries are changing how we view human origins. Finally, you will learn about modern human adaptation, diversity and maladaptation in human behavior.

The class includes lectures, videos, discussion participation, essays and exams. Content in D2L refers to course materials like lectures and is found on the navigation bar. In this class, the course content is arranged chronologically. You should complete all assignments listed in that week's module introduction. Assignments are listed on the homepage Calendar bar the week they are due. Assignments are found in D2L on the Assignment, Discussions, and Quizzes Tabs on the navigation bar. 

While the curriculum is scientific evolution, all viewpoints and religious orientations are welcome. Please bring curiosity and an open mind!

Assignments should be submitted in a PC compatible format such as PDF or .doc, .dox or .rtf. PCC offers students free access to Microsoft Office 356 or you can use Google Docs.