Using Forensics Science Problems As Teaching Tools

by: Kanesa Duncan and Toby Daly-Engel

As teachers of high school students, we constantly struggle to engage students in scientific exploration so they can master concepts and appreciate the nature of science. By providing an air of mystery and glamour, forensic science engages even reluctant students in the scientific process and helps them think like scientists about authentic problems—one of the ultimate goals of science education (Williams et al. 2004). Therefore, the project described here uses the umbrella of forensics to teach biology concepts and skills in a setting that students would find engaging. The CSI television show was used to set up a “myth-busting” environment in the classroom and to investigate the relationship between popular media and students’ attitudes about science.

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Type Journal ArticlePub Date 11/1/2006Stock # tst06_073_08_38Volume 073Issue 08

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