Describes a research program that provides insight into the nature of phylogenetic problems and problem-solving methods and how these might be applied to teaching evolution. Contains a new description of the nature of phylogenetic problems and factors contributing to their difficulty. (AIM)

Explores how biology majors accommodate the theory of biological evolution with religious beliefs. Responses clustered under for evolution, against evolution, compromise, and neutral. Suggests that teaching about the nature of scientific facts and theories can enhance understanding of evolutionary theory if students can discuss their values and…

Researchers administered surveys to college zoology students prior to, and immediately following a study of evolutionary theory, to assess their understanding and acceptance of evidence supporting the theory. Results showed students had many misconceptions about the theory. Their beliefs interfered with their ability to objectively view scientific…

Presents a lab that investigates the evolution of genetic resistance, the importance of genetic variability in the process of adaptation, and the ecological and economic consequences of pesticide use. Allows students to investigate the relationship between population size, genetic variability, and adaptability. Appendices contain the genetic card…

Interprets Edward Spranger's "Forms of Life" against the background of the findings of modern biology. Shows how far Spranger's diagnosis of different human types, which are not affected by external influences on characteristics, conform with research hypotheses of modern biological sciences. (CAJ)

The concept of paraphyly is defined and its importance in the teaching of evolution and taxonomy is discussed. Examples are included to illustrate this concept. A list of 14 references is provided. (CW)

Presents insights into the endosymbiotic theory based on a re-examination of evidence from investigations into the archaebacteria and other strange organisms inhabiting the hindguts of wood-eating insects. Examines the mechanism of evolutionary change and the speed with which it occurs. (RT)

Presented are the results of a survey of biology teachers. Results are compared to surveys of Ohio and Kentucky. Suggestions to improve the coverage of evolution are included. A copy of the survey questionnaire is appended. (CW)

Discusses the destabilizing influences that affect feedback systems in the earth and trigger disorganization. Presents information that integrates mantle degassing with feed-back systems, and the Sun-Earth-Space energy flow system which is the primary source of energy that drives the Earth's biosphere. (RT)

Contends that the natural science curriculum does not prepare biology students for understanding the process of evolution. Proposes improved teaching approaches related to geological time, the natural transition of earth environments, the variability and alteration of genetic makeup, and the biological potential of species as being necessary for…

Attempts to bring together research approaches and an international perspective to the teaching and learning of evolution. Contains 15 references. (ZWH)

Describes the development of casts that replicate fossil finds to help teach human evolution. (MKR)

Suggests that experiential canalization is appropriately applied to constraints caused by the behavior of an organism or members of its species. When other aspects of the environment propel the organism to develop in certain ways, this process reflects adaptation to the environment. Conditions for evolution of experience as a guide to development…

Offers suggestions to secondary teachers faced with teaching the concepts of evolution to a group of skeptical students. Presents a variety of comments from groups that support the integration of evolution into the science curriculum and opposing the adoption of creationism as a part of the science curriculum. (ZWH)

Calculation of cranial capacities for the means from 4 Mongoloid and 20 Caucasoid samples (raw data from 57,378 individuals in 1978) found larger brain size for Mongoloids, a finding discussed in evolutionary terms. The conclusion is disputed by L. Willerman but supported by J. P. Rushton. (SLD)