Multiple Representations in Biological Education

This new publication in the Models and Modeling in Science Education series synthesizes a wealth of international research on using multiple representations in biology education and aims for a coherent framework in using them to improve higher-order learning. Addressing a major gap in the literature, the volume proposes a theoretical model for advancing biology educators’ notions of how multiple external representations (MERs) such as analogies, metaphors and visualizations can best be harnessed for improving teaching and learning in biology at all pedagogical levels.

The content tackles the conceptual and linguistic difficulties of learning biology at each level—macro, micro, sub-micro, and symbolic, illustrating how MERs can be used in teaching across these levels and in various combinations, as well as in differing contexts and topic areas. The strategies outlined will help students’ reasoning and problem-solving skills, enhance their ability to construct mental models and internal representations, and, ultimately, will assist in increasing public understanding of biology-related issues, a key goal in today’s world of pressing concerns over societal problems about food, environment, energy, and health. The book concludes by highlighting important aspects of research in biological education in the post-genomic, information age.

• biological education
• biology education
• conceptual representations
• external representations
• learning biology
• multiple external representations
• multiple representations
• post-secondary science education
• science education
• secondary science education
• teaching biology
• visualization in biology
• learning and instruction

From the book reviews:

“The book … exemplifies how students could be actively engaged in their learning through interpretations and manipulations of models and other modes of external representations (ERs) … . I find this book a much-needed collection of resources and supportive research. Treagust and Tsui gathered under the same roof remarkable and thoughtful examples for using ERs in the classroom. … The book provides a comprehensive theoretical background, in addition to multiple practical examples that teachers could adopt in their classrooms.” (Gili Marbach-Ad, Science & Education, January, 2015)

• Science and Mathematics Education Centre, Curtin University, Perth, Australia

  David F. Treagust

• Science and Mathematics Education Centre, Curtin University, Auckland, New Zealand

  Chi-Yan Tsui

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