Student Perception on the Study of Evolution in a General Biology Course in a Christian College

Abstract

This study investigated students’ perceptions of the study of evolution in a small conservative Christian college. Students’ interest in the subject is influenced by several factors, including prior exposure to the material, students’ belief system, and the instructors’ attitudes towards the subject. These factors also determine the ability of students to understand, discuss, and analyze evolutionary-leaning arguments. Participants were students in a Foundations of Biology class. They completed a survey instrument that was administered by the College’s Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Analysis of the results indicate students are interested in the material, think it is important to study, and value discussing these issues in a supportive Christian environment. Implications for strengthening faith integration and student intellectual growth are discussed.

Acknowledgements

We are very grateful to Dr. Jerome Thayer, Center for Statistical Services, Andrews University for his assistance with the statistical analyses.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Benjamin Navia

Benjamin Navia is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Andrews University. He completed doctoral studies in Biology with an emphasis in Neurobiology at Loma Linda University. Along with being interested in studying the interface of faith and science, Dr. Navia is also active in investigating the neural basis of auditory behavior in invertebrates. His teaching responsibilities include Neurobiology, Foundations of Biology and Issues in Origins and Speciation.

David Mbungu

David Mbungu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Andrews University. He completed doctoral studies in Entomology at the University of California, Riverside. His postdoctoral training was on the expression of genes from the insect nervous system. Dr. Mbungu is interested in understanding student perception in the interface of faith and science. His teaching responsibilities include Entomology, Neuropsychopharmacology and Foundations of Biology.

Anneris Coria-Navia

Anneris Coria-Navia is an Associate Professor in the Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Department at Andrews University. She is also the director of the Center for Teaching and Learning. Dr. Coria-Navia holds a doctorate in education from the University of Southern California. She teaches courses in the Curriculum and Instruction Program, Secondary Teaching Methods in the Teacher Preparation Program, and supervises students in the field.