Entry-level biology courses, such as Bio100, serve as the first and often the only opportunity to introduce students to scientific inquiry and the use of scientific evidence in addressing personal, civic, and societal challenges. Thus, it is essential that Bio100 provides students with a strong foundation of biological knowledge together with the integrative problem-solving skills and global perspective necessary to address relevant real world challenges. To increase civic and social engagment, I have implemented a new curriculum that will facilitate investigation of societal challenges related to biology and enhance development of students’ civic and social responsibility. Students are expected to gain scientific literacy and a diverse set of skills and knowledge that will help them successfully integrate scientific perspectives into their own worldview. To assess student learning, I will utilize a pre- and post- Student Assessment of Learning Gains (SALG) tool to evaluate students' understanding, skills and attitudes, as well as the civic activities in which they engage.
| Attachment | Size |
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| civic-responsibility-curriculum-infusion-pilot-project.pdf | 150.68 KB |
Comments
Jeff, I'm thrilled that you are focusing on developing our student's social and civic responsibility, and that you will also be part of the SCGR college-wide assessment this semester. I'm curious to learn more about the Student Assessmetn of Learning Gains (SALG) tool that you are using... could you provide information on this tool?
Jeff, what an interesting and valuable direction to take science into! Like Erik, I would very much like to see the SALG tool. Will this assessment tool help to inform your instruction or curriculum decisions?
Hey Jeff, do you have data to complete this?
Your pilot project sounds like it will not only make students aware of social issues related to biology, but will also motivate them to be more engaged since the material is more relevant to their everyday lives. I loved the line you quoted in your pilot proposal about the need for students to develop "integrative problem-solving and quantitative skills". That is really the core of teaching science and math, isn't it? I'm excited to see your results, and hope your pilot is a learning experience for both you and your students.