Three examples of genetics and evolution simulation concerning Mendelian inheritance, genetic mapping, and natural selection are used to illustrate the use of simulations in modeling scientific/natural processes. First described is the HERED series, which illustrates such phenomena as incomplete dominance, multiple alleles, lethal alleles,…

Examines three types of gaps in the fossil record: real gaps, imaginary gaps, and temporary gaps. Reviews some recent evidence concerning evolution from the paleontological record of microfossils, invertebrates, and vertebrates in order to make some general conclusions regarding the manner in which life evolved on earth. (CW)

Discusses: (1) the theology of creation (religion); (2) evolution (science); and (3) scientific creationism (religious doctrine and pseudoscience). Points out that contrary to its claim, the latter is a sectarian religious doctrine in the guise of science demanding to be taught in the classroom "as a science." (JN)

Discusses evidence suggesting that the earliest land plants (small simple forms in damp areas during the Silurian period) preceeded the earliest land animals (including such small arthropods as millipedes and mites). Close animal-plant interactions occurred at the onset with more complex terrestrial ecosystems developing by the Devonian. (DH)

This book describes major events in the history of the creationism/evolution controversy in the United States. While writing these chapters, the author visited key places and museums (e.g., the Scopes Trial Museum, Arlington National Cemetery), interviewed important participants in court cases (e.g., Susan Epperson, Don Aguillard), and studied…

Discusses what is scientific theory and religious belief, who decides this, and how these issues affect views on whether creationism and evolution are scientific and should be taught in schools. Argues that only evolution qualifies as scientific theory (and should be taught) and that students should distinguish between religious/scientific…

Most articles on creationism focus on whether or not creationism should be included in science courses, on equal footing with evolutionary theory. However, positive influences that the debate can have on biology teaching should also be considered, this could lead to a deeper understanding of evolution and of science itself. (Author/JN)

Introduces a case study on speciation and evolutionary mechanisms. Teaches science process skills as well as natural selection, biological species concepts, basic genetic terminology, and classification. Includes teaching notes and classroom management strategies. (Contains 14 references.) (YDS)

Cites five misconceptions related to the concept of belief which affect if and how evolution is taught. Suggests that the words 'believe' and 'accept' are used interchangeably by scientists. Discusses each of the misconceptions in detail. (Contains 33 references.) (DDR)

Reviews the evolution-creationism issue in public schools from the 1925 Scopes trial to 1980s cases. Analyzes major aspects of "Edwards v. Aguillard" in which the U.S. Supreme Court found the 1981 Louisiana statute requiring balanced treatment of creationism and evolution unconstitutional. Suggests future implications of the issue for…

This introductory article discusses a blind-variation and selective-retention model of the creative process developed by Donald Campbell. According to Campbell, creativity contains three conditions: a mechanism for introducing variation, a consistent selection process, and a mechanism for preserving and reproducing selected variations. (Author/CR)

Presents the Maori cosmological perspective and the modern theory of evolution. Explains how these two creation stories can coexist. Discusses life on earth during its first 3 billion years, including concepts of singularity, Big Bang, time, space, matter, gravity, stars, planets, seas, and life. (DLH)

Describes a recovery program for the rodent population on St. Kitts island in the Caribbean. Students read a case study and formulate a story incorporating some of the details and data provided in the story while also drawing on several evolutionary concepts studied in class. (SAH)

There are many ways in which a campus lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) office or center can be established. This chapter tells the story of one institution's journey to creating such a center and the tools used to make that creation happen.

Human Biology courses are typically offered for non-biology majors who, like students in high school biology courses, have varying degrees of motivation and background. The primary focus is on explaining the biology behind human health and disease, but human ecology, human evolution, and human genetics may also be covered. Hence, Human Biology…