“Frass in the class”: A model for fostering interest in the natural world through insect rearing in the classroom

On-Demand

Presenting Author(s)

Amanda Markee

Florida Museum of Natural History
Gainesville, Florida

Co-Author(s)

HD

Hailey Dansby

University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
RM

Rebeccah Messcher

University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
EH

Emily Hernandez

University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
AK

Akito Y. Kawahara

Florida Museum Of Natural History
Gainesville, Florida
Caroline Storer

University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida

Insects are the most diverse animal group with over 5 million species estimated to exist on Earth. Despite their fascinating diversity, insects are rarely mentioned and often underutilized in educational settings. This is in part due to the stigmatization of insects in news and pop culture, a lack of general knowledge, or access to resources. Bringing insects and insect experts into schools not only mitigates the negative perception of insects, but cultivates a general appreciation of nature. To further foster insect and nature appreciation, we developed Frass in the Class, a K–12 education and outreach program at the Florida Museum of Natural History (FLMNH), to promote insects as educational tools in public school classrooms. We aimed to provide teachers with flexible resources to teach children about insects and scientific observation through guided rearing and synchronous activities. We connected with instructors from elementary, middle, and high schools to develop a hands-on learning experience that included lessons on metamorphosis, scientific observation, and the scientific method. First, we introduced students to the study species during an initial classroom visit. Next, we distributed insects, rearing guides, and “DIY museum scientist” data collection kits. Finally, we assessed what the students learned from the project during a final classroom visit. This hands-on rearing program allowed K-12 students to learn about insect life history strategies, introduced them to insect experts, and above all sparked curiosity about insects and the natural world.