Bones, brains, and bias-neural crest cell contribution to craniofacial structure

Area of Science:

• Developmental Biology
• Neuroscience
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Implicit bias influences how individuals perceive facial features and cognitive abilities.
• Cranial neural crest cells are crucial for facial structure and anterior brain development.
• Variations in craniofacial phenotypes can lead to biased perceptions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of cranial neural crest development.
• To link craniofacial development to implicit bias in human perception.
• To develop educational strategies for students to understand these concepts.

Main Methods:

• Review of primary research on cranial neural crest development in model organisms and humans.
• Development of educational activities focusing on craniofacial development and bias.
• Inclusion of critical thinking assignments and self-reflection opportunities.

Main Results:

• Strategies were developed to teach students about cranial neural crest development.
• Educational activities aim to increase awareness of cognitive processes and implicit bias.
• Focus on bones, brains, and bias in development to address misconceptions.

Conclusions:

• Understanding cranial neural crest development provides a framework for discussing bias.
• Educational interventions can help students recognize how implicit bias affects perception.
• This approach encourages critical thinking about the interplay of development, perception, and bias in science and society.