Teaching Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium using Population-Level Punnett Squares: Facilitating Calculation for Students...

Area of Science:

• Biology Education
• Population Genetics

Background:

• Hardy-Weinberg (HW) equilibrium is a core concept in introductory biology.
• High math anxiety and low math proficiency present significant barriers to student success in learning HW equilibrium.
• Population-level Punnett squares offer a potential pedagogical tool, but empirical validation is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the effectiveness of population-level Punnett squares as a teaching tool for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
• To investigate the impact of Punnett squares on student math anxiety and calculation proficiency.
• To determine if the order of instruction (Punnett squares vs. equations) affects understanding of HW equilibrium.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental design was employed in an introductory biology course.
• Instruction involved either Punnett squares, equations, or both over two days.
• Student performance, math anxiety levels, and calculation proficiency were assessed.

Main Results:

• Students using Punnett squares after one day of instruction outperformed those using equations.
• High math anxiety predicted Punnett square use only when equations were taught first.
• Punnett square use correlated with increased calculation proficiency for high-anxiety students.
• Learning Punnett squares before equations improved derivation of complex HW equations.

Conclusions:

• Teaching population Punnett squares as a calculation aid can mitigate math anxiety and improve equity for students.
• Using Punnett squares prior to equations enhances conceptual understanding and the ability to derive complex genetic equations.
• Population-level Punnett squares are a valuable tool for improving student comprehension of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.