Enhanced Scientific Literacy Using Project-Based Biology Laboratory Exercises

生物科学(61)越来越多的文献充分证明了美国公众的科学素养水平较低。为了解决这个问题，我们正在提供一个框架，在这个框架中，大量的本科生可以实现基本的科学素养。我们正在通过开发一门普通生物实验室课程来实现这一目标，每年大约有2325名学生参加，其中包括非理科专业的学生、代表性不足的少数族裔和未来的K-16教师。本课程改编自俄克拉荷马州立大学、纽约大学、斯威特布莱尔学院、韦尔斯利学院和万花筒计划的材料。新的生物学课程利用基于项目的学习和批判性思维技能的发展来介绍和讨论相关的科学概念。预期的项目成果包括：毕业生能够从事具有科学意识的行为和知情的公民身份，提高科学知识，以及欣赏科学与“现实世界”问题之间的联系。该项目正在产生适合大量学生的创新的动手、思考的实验室活动，其他机构可以通过出版的实验室手册进行适应。正在通过一个项目网站、在全国会议上的发言、教师发展讲习班、出版实验室材料和专业文章来进行传播。这种模式可以很容易地被其他机构采用，因此对其他教授大量学生的大学具有极大的潜力。

Biological Sciences (61)A growing body of literature amply documents the low levels of scientific literacyamong the American public. To address this issue we are providing a framework in whichlarge numbers of undergraduates can achieve basic scientific literacy. We areaccomplishing this goal through development of a general biology laboratory course forapproximately 2325 students per year including non-science majors, underrepresentedminorities and future K-16 teachers. This course is adapting materials from Oklahoma State University, New York University, Sweetbriar College, Wellesley College, and Project Kaleidoscope The new biology course utilizes project-based learning and critical thinking skill development to introduce and allow discussion of relevant scientific concepts. Expected project outcomes include: graduates able to engage in scientifically aware behavior and informed citizenship, improved scientific knowledge, and an appreciation of the connections between science and "real-world" problems. The project is yielding innovative hands-on, minds-on laboratory activities suitable for large numbers of students that are available for adaptation by other institutions through a published laboratory manual. Dissemination is being accomplished through a project web site, presentations at national meetings, faculty development workshops, publication of laboratory materials and professional articles. This model is one that can be easily adapted by other institutions and, therefore has excellent potential for other universities who teach large numbers of students.