The Edutopia Poll
by Sara Bernard
Computer simulation is a hot topic in education -- and for some squeamish students, it’s quite a boon in biology class. Virtual dissections provide an educational alternative to real operations by accurately representing an animal specimen, simulating situations impossible to stage in real life, and including all kinds of additional learning tools. But some educators maintain that no computer simulation can do real dissection justice. A 2002 Humane Society poll, for instance, reported that the majority of biology teachers believe real animal dissection is a better educational experience than the virtual alternative. Tell us what you think.
Is computer-simulated dissection a better teaching tool than real animal dissection?
Yes. Not only are computer simulations anatomically accurate, they can also provide extra information, interactive tools, and embedded assessments. Plus, they protect animals’ rights.
39% (9 votes)
No. There is no substitute for the real thing. If a student would rather not participate in a live dissection, computer simulation can be a satisfactory alternative, but live specimen dissection is an engaging, hands-on, and highly effective teaching tool
52% (12 votes)
Neither. (Click on Vote, then enter a comment below to offer another response.)
9% (2 votes)
Total votes: 23
Alternatives to animal dissection
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on April 13, 2008 - 16:55.
I believe that all students should have the option of not participating in animal dissections. I'm a vegetarian and a firm believer in animal rights. There are many different alternatives to animal dissections.
Vivisection and/or dissection is cruel
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on March 12, 2008 - 14:12.
Vivisection and/or dissection is cruel and unnecessary. Computer simulations (as well as physical models) offer a much more complete lesson, both in the biology of the animal, and in the realm of ethics.
In addition, while some students may proceed with the "ethical" instructions on how to experiment with the animals (ridiculous), invariably there will be students who delight in cruelty and pain. Either way, continuing this barbaric teaching method is archaic and counter productive.
When we teach children that it is acceptable to do what we please with those weaker than us, what lesson will they carry through to the rest of their lives?
Simulated Dissection
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on October 30, 2007 - 07:30.
I think that taking into consideration the type of learner one is working with could determine the efficacy of using either real life or simulated dissection. They both have their merits in the correct context.
Students need both hands on and media
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on June 6, 2007 - 12:51.
Stutents need both hands on and the media to accomplish learning the skills needed in the science arena...how many scientist have you met that have not expierienced hands on learning? Most students have a higher success rate with hands on learning because everything they are learning seems to come together wit the hands on expieriences.
dissection
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on June 6, 2007 - 06:00.
In some cases observing the live animal is preferable to dissection. I have my students observe live earthworms using a biocular scope and they can see the blood running through the dorsal blood vessel of the worms. Also I have brought in live frogs, have fish in the fish tank to observe. I learned fish dissection by cleaning fish that we caught out of the lake, we always opened the stomach to see what they were eating so we could adjust the bait we used.
Why not both?
Submitted by Anonymous on May 4, 2007 - 04:24.
It seems to me that virtual and actual dissection should be used in combination. Although a the previous responses suggests that real dissection be reserved for those pursuing a career in the biological science, I can say from my experience that it is often the dissection experience that leads kids into those fields.
simulated dissections
Submitted by Anonymous on May 2, 2007 - 17:56.
I can see the value of both. It would help to see some of these computer simulated dissections first hand before making that call. Interestingly enough, I was just looking for such a program today for our high school. The real specimens are expensive and the sheer volume of animals used for dissections nationwide strikes me as being wasteful and wrong. Maybe if the real ones were reserved for students seriously pursuing a career in medicine, the simulations could fulfill the requirements of those that just need the basics.
I would like to hear from those that have actually used computer simulated science programs.
M.Wall bmwkids@sbcglobal.net
Does it have to be exclusive?
Submitted by Anonymous on April 26, 2007 - 15:11.
Each has their strengths and weaknesses.
Post new comment