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Translating research on evolutionary transitions into the teaching of biological complexity
Richard E Michod1, Dinah R Davison1, Hailey Sanders2
1Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, College of Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States.
Evolution; International Journal of Organic Evolution
|April 4, 2022
Summary
This study introduces a framework for teaching biological complexity using evolutionary transitions in individuality (ETI) theory. It connects natural selection and social behavior to the hierarchy of life, making evolution engaging for students.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Science education
Background:
- Biological systems exhibit nested hierarchical structures, reflecting significant diversity and complexity.
- Teaching the evolution of this hierarchy and biological complexity itself is often overlooked in educational settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a pedagogical framework for teaching biological complexity.
- To leverage evolutionary transitions in individuality (ETI) theory for educational purposes.
- To connect evolutionary concepts with social behavior and biodiversity.
Main Methods:
- Developing new content based on ETI theory.
- Creating general teaching tools for this content.
- Integrating the content and tools with educational standards and benchmarks.
Main Results:
- ETI theory provides a novel approach to teaching biological complexity.
- The framework connects natural selection, group behavior, and the hierarchy of life.
- Teaching ETIs enhances understanding of science practices and evolutionary processes.
Conclusions:
- Evolutionary transitions research offers an engaging method to teach biological complexity.
- Students can better grasp evolution by relating it to social dynamics and group behavior.
- This framework makes the evolution of life's hierarchy more accessible and understandable.
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