Stories from our Network: Heather Lerner at Earlham College
Heather Lerner - Earlham College
The Setup
Context: Introduction to Ecology
Class Size: 60 students
Preparation
This course is generally comprised of biology and environmental science majors, primarily first-year students. In previous years we have had a large number of non-science majors and low confidence/preparation in math. This year we are addressing math fears by incorporating growth vs. fixed mindset readings and reinforcement with framing and discussion in the class.
Execution
I’m planning to use the Extinction module and the Survivorship Module in my intro ecology class with ~60 students. This semester we are using a team-based learning and flipped classroom method of teaching. We previously showed a Planet Earth film for one “conservation” lab and I will substitute the Extinction Module this fall. The Survivorship Module will need to fit within the 50 minute class period over 1-2 class periods. We use JMP in this class and Excel or Google Sheets.
About the author