Trends in Teaching Experimentation in the Life Sciences: Putting Research into Practice to Drive Institutional Change (Contributions from Biology Education Research)
Step into the forefront of biology education with Trends in Teaching Experimentation in the Life Sciences, a transformative guide designed to help educators and administrators embed research-based strategies into life science curricula. Edited by Nancy J. Pelaez, Stephanie M. Gardner, and Trevor R. Anderson—leaders in biology education from Purdue University—the book brings over 561 pages of case studies, frameworks, and evidence-based methods to elevate how biological experimentation is taught and assessed.
This volume interrogates deep-rooted assumptions at the classroom, departmental, and institutional levels about how students learn experimentation. It classifies, unpacks, and illustrates the ACE‑Bio competencies—a core set of scientific skills essential for experimental biologists—through practical examples and student-centered outcomes.
Unlock innovative tools for curriculum reform with sections that include:
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Backward course design structured around authentic student gains in experimental abilities.
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Assignments and rubrics aligned with research competencies, including journal‑style lab reports and evidence-based reasoning.
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Strategies for virtual microscopy, digital notebooks, and soft‑skill development—bridging modern pedagogy and lab practice.
This book speaks to educators dedicated to scientific literacy, public policy engagement, and evidence-based decision-making—guiding institutions toward meaningful pedagogical change. It blends research insights, teaching tools, and institutional buy-in strategies—an exceptional resource for:
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Biology educators and lecturers seeking to upgrade lab instruction
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Education researchers building robust teaching studies
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University administrators aiming to drive curriculum improvement
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Teacher-trainers and professional development coordinators
