The limits of falsification are discussed and the historically based models of science described by Lakatos and Kuhn are shown to offer greater insights into the practice of science. The theory of natural selection is used to relate biology to philosophy and scientific method. (Author/JN)

Presents an activity that highlights the mechanism and power of natural selection. Allows students to think in terms of modeling a biological process and instills an appreciation for a mathematical approach to biological problems. (JRH)

Describes models for selection, genetic drift and migration for teaching high school biology. (LS)

Presents a simulation model approach to the study of evolution. This model combines both practical and theoretical aspects of evolutionary biology course work. The author has used laboratory hardware for this simulation with 20 working groups of students. (HM)

This research paper examines phylogenetic tree construction-a form of problem solving in biology-by studying the strategies and heuristics used by experts. One result of the research is the development of a model of desired performance for phylogenetic tree construction. A detailed description of the model and the sample problems which illustrate…

Describes a general systems evolutionary model and demonstrates how a previously established ecological model is a function of its past development based on the evolution of the rock, nutrient, and water cycles. Discusses the applications of the model in environmental education. (MDH)

Reports on a process which allows active study of mutating the characteristics of a population of organisms. States that the program, written in C, should run on a MS/DOS system with 640K; CGA is required for graphics output. Describes implementation procedures and two examples using the program. (RT)

The Almond model of public opinion can be modified to produce an issue-polarization model of the creation-evolution debate. Suggests that the nonattentive public may hold more potential for expanding the ranks of pro-evolution attentives than for expanding the ranks of those favoring creationism. (JN)

Describes an approach to teaching population genetics and evolution and some of the ways models can be used to enhance understanding of the processes being studied. Discusses the instructional plan, and the use of models including utility programs and analysis with models. Provided are a basic program and sample program outputs. (CW)