| The purpose of this research project was to design and implement active learning opportunities such as lab experiments and activities into the first semester of an Advanced Placement Biology course as replacement to lecture and note-taking experiences. The lab experiences and pre and post lab questions were designed to teach biological concepts without the need of corresponding lecture material. Topics covered by implemented activities include general experimental design, capture/recapture methods of population estimation, transpiration, allelopathy, negative feedback loops and Chi Square tests. The effectiveness of the labs and activities was evaluated using pre and post test comparisons, surveys and anecdotal evidence.;The results of these assessments support the use of such activities as a method of teaching various biological concepts. Strengths and weaknesses of each of the activities are discussed and proposed adaptations for increased effectiveness of each are described. |
