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Are Ants Good Organisms to Teach Elementary Students about Invasive Species in Florida?

Authors :
Sara Zollota
Patricia Perez
Jenna Allen
Tori Argenti
Quentin D. Read
Marina S. Ascunce
Source :
Insects, Vol 14, Iss 2, p 118 (2023)
Publication Year :
2023
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2023.

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of our outreach program “The ImportANTs of ANTs” in communicating scientific topics to elementary school children, using ants as example organisms. In this program’s first phase, we focused on the concepts of native and invasive species and how invasive species affect ecosystems. The program included various active learning approaches, including presentations, handouts, crafts, and live colony viewings. At two schools (one in rural and one in suburban areas), 210 students from 5th grade were assessed using short, anonymous pre- and post-surveys. We analyzed the students’ responses to questions from the following categories: general feelings about ants, ant knowledge, general care for the environment, general impact knowledge, and native/invasive species knowledge. The school populations displayed distinct opinion changes and knowledge gains; however, there was a significant increase in knowledge of native and invasive species in both populations. Our study demonstrates that ants are good models to teach children about the impact of invasive species. The project aims to drive universal responsibility by forging proactive attitudes toward protecting the environment and native species early.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20754450
Volume :
14
Issue :
2
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Insects
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.8554f5024a574edaa8225c3817aa95d5
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020118