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Dissection as an Instructional Technique in Secondary Science: Choice and Alternatives

 
Submitted on Jul 06, 2010 (Original item from 2006) | | | |
by Lakehead University
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Short Description:
Based on a study of retrospective data concerning high school dissection, this study examined the role of dissection in the teaching of secondary biology and environmental science and found that such experience often leads to long-lasting negative feelings about dissection.

Abstract:
The dissection of animals with the purpose of studying anatomy has been used for centuries in science education with the purposes of providing students with an understanding of the process of scientific inquiry, the acquisition of skills for work in science and technology, and the development of a sensitivity about science and its influence on societal issues and values.
For the purposes of this study, undergraduate students at an Ontario university completed a questionnaire including material exploring the use of dissection and its alternative at the high school level. Of the 191 students who completed the survey, 88% had carried out dissection in high school. Further, 11% enrolled in such course because it would involve dissection.
Dissection was a compulsory component of courses for 69% of respondents, 6% said it was voluntary in some courses but compulsory in others, and 19% said it was entirely voluntary. The most commonly used species for dissection were invertebrates, amphibians, and some mammals.
As the result of their experience, many students reported long-lasting negative feelings about dissection. However, not all negative feeling stemmed from ethical opinions, some noted feelings of "squeamishness" as well.
http://www.animalsandsociety.org/assets/library/261_s8.pdf

Spot Check Number: 1415
Sponsor: Lakehead University
Researcher/Author: Alan Bowd
Animal Type: Research Animals
Record Type: Journal Article
Geographic Region: International
Number of Participants: 191
Population Descriptors: Undergraduate students
Year Conducted: 2006
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This is a very good

Submitted by Mischiefmanaged on Thu, 2010-11-04 18:39.
This is a very good arguement for college students not to take these courses. It is rediculous to think that they don't give enough credit to other alternatives to dissection, especially for majors that do not require this study. There should be alternatives offered in every class in case you can't get the class that you want because it is full up. If they have to take a class with a lab, for God's sake don't make a business major kill innocent creatures or any of the students!For others they can still benefit from alternatives and it's time has come to be implemented with numbers of students being educated with their rights to request those alternatives without fear of reprisal and grades being manipulated the way they are trying to manipulate their brains to desensitization! I fought on my college campus and I have written a book to show others how to fight on their own campus, just need an editor. If anyone wants to help me my email is mischiefmanaged_2@hotmail.com
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