Learning Outcomes – Groups on the Phylogeny

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Define sister groups and identify them in phylogenetic trees.
• Explain and differentiate between monophyletic, paraphyletic, and polyphyletic groups.
• Describe how groupings such as “reptiles” or “algae” are formed and their implications for evolutionary biology.
• Critically evaluate the impact of historical classification systems on modern phylogenetics.
• Recognize patterns such as cryptic speciation and convergent evolution through phylogenetic analysis.
• Apply phylogenetic principles to explore relationships among species and higher taxonomic levels.

Each lesson contains video and text. Short quizzes check your understanding of the material. A final mastery check covers all of the material. Course completion requires passing the mastery check.