Physiologists Affirm Value of Animal Labs in Active Learning
Teaching laboratories integral in providing students with a rich learning experience
(BETHESDA, MD) -- "Teaching laboratories that actively engage students in observation of and interaction with living systems enhance student understanding of physiology [and] provid[e] experiences that are qualitatively and quantitatively different" from what students experience in other educational settings, according to the American Physiological Society (APS).
In recent years there has been a notable decline in the number of schools offering animal laboratories in connection with physiology and other courses. This is due to a number of factors, including the increasing breadth of the science curriculum, lack of laboratory space and equipment, controversy about the use of animals, and higher costs associated with studying animals. Nevertheless, what students gain from participating in an animal laboratory - active learning, critical thinking skills, a lasting appreciation of the complexity of living systems, an abiding respect for living organisms – makes the investment well worth the dollars spent. According to the Society's 2004 Position Statement on Animals in Teaching, "Well-designed animal laboratories provide vivid, exciting opportunities for the direct study of how living systems function."
"It is the educator's duty to select pedagogy that promotes learning to all students," according to Dr. Robert Carroll, of East Carolina University School of Medicine and a former Chair of the APS Education Committee. "Providing teachers and students with a variety of effective educational tools ensures a more complete science curriculum."
"This is a matter of educational quality," said Dr. Martin Frank, the APS Executive Director. "Students benefit from the hands-on learning approach that animal laboratories offer."
The APS position statement and a supporting paper providing the rationale behind it are available at http://www.the-aps.org/pa/action/news/animalsinteaching.htm.
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The American Physiological Society (APS) is a professional scientific membership organization devoted to fostering scientific research, education, and the dissemination of scientific information. Through its journals, meetings and professional development awards, APS plays an essential role in the advancement of knowledge toward the understanding of basic biological function in living organisms.
APS supports a variety of educational activities that encourage the development of young scientists at the K-12, undergraduate and graduate levels, and is committed to the continuing development of resources that enhance the student laboratory experience for all types of learners. In May 2004, APS won the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM).
Founded in 1887, the Society's membership includes more than 10,000 professionals in science and medicine.