Using the Ultimate Natural Laboratory to Teach Evolution, Natural Selection and Biodiversity

The Galapagos Islands provide the ultimate natural laboratory for illustrating the amazing variety of flora and fauna that can develop in a relatively isolated location. While many educators use the Galapagos Islands to teach biodiversity and natural selection, few venture with students to this incredible landscape. This paper discusses the development of a study abroad experience designed to enhance classroom instruction on the topics of biodiversity and evolution by natural selection. Students began in the classroom, learning about the natural history of the islands, Charles Darwin, natural selection, speciation, and the diverse flora and fauna of the Galapagos. During the trip abroad, students followed in Darwin's footsteps, discovering the new world around them. They kept a detailed journal documenting everything they observed, just as Darwin did. Students gained essential skills that allow them to think like scientists: making observations, forming questions, and developing research projects with real world implications. Upon return to the classroom, students discussed their experiences and the impact their travels had on them, and completed coursework. While the use of a natural laboratory is not a completely novel approach to teaching, this experience is different than others described in the literature because it was developed as part of an interdisciplinary set of courses designed to provide insight into the various aspects of both the natural and social sciences, allowing students to see how these areas complement one another in such a way as to provide a more complete understanding of the world around us.