Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026
17:13
Exploring Deep Space - Uncovering the Anatomy of Periventricular Structures to Reveal the Lateral Ventricles of the Human Brain
Published on: October 22, 2017
Biology teachers' attitudes to dissection and alternatives
Lesley A King1, Cheryl L Ross, Martin L Stephens
1The Humane Society of the United States, 2100 L Street, NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA. Iking@hsus.org
Alternatives to Laboratory Animals : ATLA
|April 16, 2013
Summary
Most biology teachers use dissection, viewing it as essential hands-on learning. Widespread adoption of humane alternatives requires significant shifts in teacher beliefs and classroom practices regarding biological specimens.
Area of Science:
- Science Education
- Biology Teaching Methods
Background:
- Dissection is a traditional method in biology education.
- Ethical concerns and documented effectiveness of alternatives challenge dissection's necessity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess American middle and high school biology teachers' attitudes and practices regarding dissection.
- To understand teacher perspectives on dissection versus alternative teaching methods.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to American middle and high school biology teachers.
- A preliminary sample of 494 respondents provided data on dissection use and attitudes.
Main Results:
- 79% of surveyed teachers use dissection; 72% consider it important.
- 69% cite the hands-on aspect as key; 66% favor student choice.
- Only 31% believe alternatives are as effective as dissection for anatomy and physiology.
Conclusions:
- The hands-on nature of dissection remains a primary reason for its continued use.
- Integrating humane alternatives necessitates changes in teacher beliefs and practices.
- Teacher buy-in is crucial for transitioning from traditional dissection to modern alternatives.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Overview of Anatomy and Physiology
Human anatomy is the scientific study of the body's structures. Some of these structures are very small and can only be observed and analyzed with the assistance of a microscope. Other larger structures can readily be seen, manipulated, measured, and weighed. The word "anatomy" comes from a Greek root that means "to cut apart." Human anatomy was first studied by observing the body's exterior and the wounds of soldiers and other injuries. Later, physicians were allowed to dissect the bodies of...
01:20Anatomical Terminology
Knowledge of anatomy is essential to understand human biology and medicine. Anatomists and health care professionals use standard terminology to describe the human body with more precision and no ambiguity. Anatomical terms have mostly Greek and Latin-derived roots. Because these languages are rarely used in conversation, the meaning of words remains the same. Each term is made up of a root in between the prefixes and suffixes. The root of a term often refers to an organ, tissue, or condition,...
01:56Ethics in Research
Today, scientists agree that good research is ethical in nature and is guided by a basic respect for human dignity and safety. However, this has not always been the case. Modern researchers must demonstrate that the research they perform is ethically sound.