Vision and Change Implementation

 

Integrate Core Concepts and Competencies throughout the Curriculum

• Introduce the scientific process to students early, and integrate it into all undergraduate biology courses

• Relate abstract concepts in biology to real ­world examples on a regular basis, and make biology content relevant by presenting problems in a real ­life context 

• Stimulate the curiosity students have for learning about the natural world

• Demonstrate both the passion scientists have for their discipline and their delight in sharing their understanding of the world with students

 

Focus on Student ­Centered Learning

• Engage students as active participants, not passive recipients, in all undergraduate biology courses

• Use multiple modes of instruction in addition to the traditional lecture

• Introduce research experiences as an integral component of biology education for all students, regardless of their major

• Integrate multiple forms of assessment to track student learning

 

Promote a Campus wide Commitment to Change

• Mobilize all stakeholders, from students to administrators, to commit to improving the quality of undergraduate biology education

• Support the development of a true community of scholars dedicated to advancing the life sciences and the science of teaching

• Advocate for increased status, recognition, and rewards for innovation in teaching, student success, and other educational outcome

 

Engage the Biology Community in the Implementation of Change

• Promote more concept­ oriented undergraduate biology courses, and help all students learn how to integrate facts into larger conceptual contexts 

• Provide all biology faculty with access to the teaching and learning research referenced throughout this report, and encourage its application when developing courses 

• Create active ­learning environments for all students, even those in first ­year biology courses