ABSTRACT

of

AN HONORS BIOCHEMISTY CURRICULUM: BRIDGING THE GENDER GAP IN THE SCIENCES FOR FEMALES

by

Phillip M. Montbriand

Statement of Problem

The participation of women in the sciences is severely lacking and is a complex issue; however, educators play a critical role in the teaching methodologies used. The teaching of science has historically been biased in its approach, favoring the male student. The way science is taught can affect the interest, learning, and future involvement of student’s involvement in the sciences. This as well as other factors has lead to a gender gap in the sciences, where males have dominated science and females have been underrepresented for years.

Purpose of Project

The purpose of this project is to develop a new curriculum for an honors biochemistry course, using gender fair teaching practices. The development of this honors biochemistry curriculum has been designed using teaching methodologies and strategies that fit the learning styles of female students. The approach used is an inquiry-based, hands-on laboratory model. Through this method all students will be actively engaged in the learning process and this course will encourage and inspire females to consider pursuing a scientific career. The use of gender fair teaching methodologies was central to the development of the content and activities in this curriculum.

Project Description

This project is based on national science standards in investigation and experimentation for the secondary level, using an inquiry-based, hands-on laboratory approach. The new curriculum developed here for an honors biochemistry course is based around five laboratory projects and additional activities throughout the school year. These laboratory projects and activities require students to design their own protocols based on their own research on the topic. The instructor, textbook, and other materials will supplement the laboratory portion of this course. The type of projects and activities in this curriculum enables students to experience science as a scientist. Students will discover how science works and therefore will be inspired to further pursue their scientific education.