The course will bring together students in basic and applied plant biology to seek understanding of the molecular and physiological bases of crop improvement. Which traits provide the bases for effective past and future crop improvements through traditional breeding, molecular breeding and biotechnology? We will examine desirable traits from various viewpoints ranging from the population level to molecular genetics. What are the biological bases of the genetic technologies used in improving crops? What about the bases for efficient germplasm screening technologies? As individuals and as groups, we will critically consider diverse crops, the adaptation and ecology of yield, the physiology of yield and quality, and the efficient use of agro-environmental resources. As biologists and agronomists, we will examine the future of yield including novel products. This is a web-enhanced course. About half of the meetings will be in the classroom and half will be in a virtual or on-line classroom.

Format: Seven two-week modules. The first week in each module involves a three-hour period of instructor-directed in-classroom presentation or discussion of material (33%) and in-classroom group exercises (17%). The second week in each module involves instructor-directed on-line presentation or discussion of material (17%) and on-line group exercises and student-centered discussions (33%).  

Instructor: Lee Tarpley, (409) 752-2741 ext. 2235, ltarpley@tamu.edu