Engaging Non-Major Biology Students in a Biology Laboratory through Service Learning Activities

 

Sarah Cerra

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2017, Volume 38

Abstract

Student engagement of non-major biology students can be difficult. Some students believe they are not good at science, do not like science, or have other mental blocks regarding biology that sometimes make it difficult for students to be successful in class. Service learning is an opportunity for students to network in their communities through classroom activities. There are many ways a student can complete service learning activities in the community. A service learning project was piloted in which students were asked to complete 8 hours of service learning rather than the traditional out of class experiment set up. Students were then required to turn in a journal of their experience and present to their class. Students described enjoyable experiences and in a few cases, these experiences have helped them to make decisions regarding future careers. Come discuss ways your students can be more engaged in laboratory class while getting involved in their community!

Keywords:  service learning

University of Houston (2016)