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AiMS Modeling in Biology Project

The goal of this National Science Foundation-funded research project, shared between the University of Georgia and the University of Alabama, is to develop teachers’ capacity to teach challenging biology concepts using models and modeling.

Project activities are centered on a model-based approach to teaching cellular respiration. The instructional approach used in the project is inquiry-based and exemplifies three-dimensional science teaching described in Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

We are looking for teachers in Alabama and Georgia who would like to participate in AiMS, to gain ideas and resources for teaching about cellular respiration and to learn about how modeling can be used to teach challenging biology concepts.

The AiMS project is for teachers who would like to:

  • Be in community with other biology teachers
  • Learn a new way to teach that works for difficult biology concepts like cellular respiration
  • Develop proficiency in Next Generation-style teaching

Teachers who join this project will take part in a two-day professional development institute June 15-16 at the University of Georgia. Teachers will then have the opportunity to use the project materials in the 2018-2019 school year with the option to participate in a research study of the effectiveness of the modeling approach.

Curriculum Materials

Curriculum materials and more information on the project are available at https://modelingbigideas.org/teacher-resources/cellular-respiration-curriculum/ .

Meet Our Team

Dan Capps

Assistant professor, Department of Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies Education (Science Education), University of Georgia

Carlson Coogler

Ph.D., science education, The University of Alabama

Jonathan Shemwell

Assistant professor, Department of Curriculum and Instruction (Secondary Science Education), University of Alabama

Ayça Karaşahinoğlu

Ph.D., science education, University of Georgia

Elgin Leary

Ph.D., science education, University of Georgia

Publications and Research

More articles coming soon!

Read more about the grant that funds this project .

Contact Info

105K Aderhold Hall 110 Carlton St. Athens, GA 30602
© University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602
706‑542‑3000