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July 10, 2001
UC Paleontology Museum Puts Evolution On-line
Evolution is the central organizing principle of the life sciences,
yet it remains a source of controversy. Teachers, students and the
public often have a hard time getting a handle on exactly what
evolution is and why it is so important. To help ease the controversy
and confusion, the University of California Museum of Paleontology will
use a new $390,000, four-year grant from HHMI to develop an interactive
Web site on evolution.
Different sections of the site will target teachers, middle and high
school students, and the public.Teachers will be able to turn to a
section of the Web site to find factual information as well as
self-study units on topics such as the nature of science, a series of
proven teaching strategies, and links to curriculum resources elsewhere
on the Internet. For students, a section called Exploring Evolution
will provide Web-based activities such as a virtual research lab.
Students also will find a guided tour of major concepts in evolution,
as well as information about careers in evolutionary biology and a
chance to "meet" scientists working in that field. A third section,
Evolution Around Us, will offer the public an interactive arena that
addresses common misconceptions and controversial issues and provides
answers to frequently asked questions.
A volunteer panel of students and members of the public—the
project's target audience—will help a team of scientists and educators
develop activities for classrooms and the Web. Their input will help
the museum provide a product that meets the needs of various users.
Workshops and short courses for teachers and a public lecture series
will supplement the evolution Web site.
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Howard Hughes
