Can the study of bats be used to fulfill and integrate standards in science education?

Term

2007

Capstone

Thesis

Degree Name

MAED: NSEE

Abstract

This study investigates whether bats can be used as a topic in science education, to fulfill and integrate science standards. Bats are exceptionally diverse, with an ancient evolutionary history and an unusual suite of ecological adaptations. They offer the potential to represent a spectrum of core science concepts. Four bat curriculum packages, for grades K-8, were evaluated. In addition, extensive scientific research literature was compiled as a reference on bat biology for secondary grades. Both materials were aligned with the National Science Education Standards. This alignment indicates that bats can be used to fulfill some standards in all of the eight core science disciplines (grades K-12) defined by the Standards. Integration of standards is also possible with careful curriculum design, and may serve to improve science literacy and testing scores.

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