Authentic research experiences have been found to increase student interest in science and their knowledge of science concepts, yet few teachers are trained in how to conduct research or integrate more of these experiences into their instruction. In this study, middle school science teachers spent four weeks conducting entomological research on the symbiotic relationship between Acropyga ants and Xenococcine mealybugs, including handling specimens, interacting with specialists, and collecting data. Participants then designed and taught lessons that integrated this experience into their science curriculum and utilized live arthropods to engage students. All participants reported an increase in their science teaching self-efficacy, interest in teaching with live insects, higher student engagement, and feeling more comfortable with entomology and the scientific process.
.jpg "Faith J. Weeks photo")