Using Culturally Relevant Pedagogy to Reconsider the Genetics Canon

Area of Science:

• STEM Education
• Biology Education
• Culturally Relevant Pedagogy

Background:

• Persistent underrepresentation of oppressed minorities in STEM fields.
• Opportunity gaps contribute to this underrepresentation.
• Need for inclusive teaching practices in science.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore culturally relevant pedagogy (CRP) as a strategy to address STEM underrepresentation.
• To empower biology instructors to act against opportunity gaps.
• To examine the culturally laden nature of science history and curriculum.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual exploration of culturally relevant pedagogy.
• Analysis of Gregor Mendel's story to illustrate historical context.
• Postulation of an alternative genetics education method.

Main Results:

• Culturally relevant pedagogy enables instructors to foster agency and support underrepresented minority (URM) students.
• Examining historical figures like Mendel reveals the culturally laden nature of science.
• An alternative genetics curriculum can better reflect the cultural context of scientific knowledge.

Conclusions:

• Biology instructors can become culturally relevant pedagogues to promote equity in STEM.
• Understanding the cultural context of science is crucial for inclusive education.
• Revising genetics education can enhance learning for diverse student populations.