The Joint Educational Project's (JEP) STEM Education Programs at the University of Southern California (USC) present an elementary-level curriculum centered on the science of stem cells in partnership with Dr. Adam MacLean, an Assistant Professor of Quantitative and Computational Biology at USC for the broader impacts of a National Science…

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effects of microscope simulation software on prospective science teachers' laboratory achievements, microscope use, laboratory reports and views on microscope which was prepared for general biology laboratory. The case study design was adopted for the research. The participants were 49 science teacher…

Biomodeling is the study of the structures and behaviors of interacting biological entities such as molecules, cells, or organisms. While physical and chemical processes give rise to various spatial and temporal structures, even the simplest biological phenomenon is infinitely more complex (Kling 2004). Over the past decade, much of biomodeling…

The compound microscope is an important tool in biology, and mastering it requires repetition. Unfortunately, introductory activities for students can be formulaic, and consequently, students are often unengaged and fail to develop the required experience to become proficient in microscopy. To engage students, increase repetition, and develop…

The history of learning biology through distance education is documented. A review of terminology and unique problems associated with biology instruction is presented. Using published research and their own teaching experience, the authors present recommendations and best practices for managing biology in distance-based formats. They offer ideas…

Introduces MacClade which is a Macintosh-based software package that uses the techniques of cladistic analysis to explore evolutionary patterns. Describes a novel and effective exercise that allows undergraduate biology majors to test a hypothesis about behavioral evolution in insects. (Contains 13 references.) (Author/YDS)

Speculates on the place of computers and defining the student-computer relationship within the context of biology education. Discusses the value of computer simulations. (DDR)

Describes a sequence of five computer programs (listings for Apple II available from author) on tactic responses (oriented movement of a cell, cell group, or whole organism in reponse to stimuli). The simulation programs are useful in helping students examine mechanisms at work in real organisms. (JN)

A computer program that simulates the random evolution of a metabolic pathway is given. The program shows that natural selection preserves favorable traits if they occur in a specific sequence. (KR)

Advocates using computer-simulated learning environments to allow students to develop their own problem-solving rules when it comes to collecting and evaluating scientific data. Describes the use of "Identibacter interactus" to simulate identification of an unknown microorganism. (WRM)

Discusses the advantages of basing computer simulations on analogues of nature rather than mathematical models. Explains the concept of heritability and describes how a computer simulation can help undergraduate students understand this concept. (ML)

Indicates that although computers may churn out creative research, science is still dependent on science education, and that science education consists of increasing human experience. Also considers uses and misuses of computers in the science classroom, examining Edgar Dale's "cone of experience" related to laboratory computer and "extended…

The debate on the educational value of dissection versus the value of animal life is examined. Interactive videodisc (IVD) technology is described in light of its potential for laboratory simulations. The design of the IVD-based dissection simulation, The Interactive Frog Dissection, is presented. (KR)

The assumptions common to all capture-recapture models for estimating population size are reviewed. A simulation using either a playing board, counters, and dice or computers is described. Classroom implications of using the board game are discussed. (KR)

Describes a study that examined the relationships in achievement between members of dyads who were paired according to epistemological maturity. Each dyad engaged in a photosynthesis simulation exercise. Also examines the relationship between individual students' epistemological maturity and their understanding of photosynthesis. Contains 24…