Keeping bio‐alive in geography education
In: Area. Blackwell Publishing: London. ISSN 0004-0894; e-ISSN 1475-4762, more
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| Authors | | Top |
- Morales-Ramirez, C.A.
- Wang, Y.-C.
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| Abstract |
With the rapid changes our planet is undergoing, biogeography plays a key role in addressing real-world issues such as species distribution change. However, biogeography is a discipline lacking a strong presence in education. This paper examines various curricula from Asia, the United Kingdom, and United States to understand the current status of biogeography education. We found that while some biogeographic concepts, especially those around biodiversity, are included in some geography and biology curricula, there is not a strong focus on the discipline. Some individuals only find out about the discipline from their graduate studies. Our questionnaire survey conducted with students at a university in Singapore showed that only 25% of the students had some understanding of the discipline's focus, and they associated the discipline with keywords of plants, animals, organisms, environment, biology, and geography. Even incorrect responses included similar words associating biogeography with ecosystems and the environment. Based on the results, we make some recommendations, including the addition of biogeography in school standards and the availability of education tools and resources for educators. It is imperative for researchers to make educational materials and training tools easily accessible. |
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