The Teaching of Biology in Schools and Training Colleges

Abstract

BIOLOGY, as here considered, is not that of the specialist in zoology or botany, but rather that for which a place is claimed in the general education of all pupils, and especially of those in primary and secondary schools. In addition to minor, but not unimportant, objects, the chief aim of such general biology is rightly stated to be the stimulation of interest and curiosity, and to produce enjoyment, both aesthetic and intellectual, of Nature. The opening chapters of this useful little book contain an eloquent apologia of biology, based upon a consideration of its values and aims, and of the psychological factors which should influence the selection of material and the methods of teaching. The teacher who would be ready to give an answer for his faith in biological teaching will find here his brief set out in excellent style. In subsequent chapters the author has constantly in mind the students at training colleges. Though, perhaps, she says nothing that is entirely new on courses of Nature study and the more advanced work, she has nevertheless done good service to all teachers of biology in bringing together, and more or less codifying, the general principles by which all should be guided, and not less in pointing out the many pitfalls that beset the path of the inexperienced. Stress is very properly laid on the importance of presenting biology as a study of living things.