Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
This study aimed to determine which learning methods are most effective at helping students learn about invasive species. Research through literature reviews showed that active learning methods can best help students learn and retain information regarding aspects of the natural environment. This includes hands-on activities such as participating in discussions, making observations, playing games, and interacting with objects like animals. The experiment tested different active and passive learning methods. This included watching presentations under passive learning or reviewing information online through active learning. Results showed that participants felt more confident about learning the material through active learning and were more comfortable acquiring information in settings outside the classroom. The results also highlighted a knowledge gap regarding invasive species between students with a science major and those without one. While there were some weaknesses due to a limited sample size and resources, the research may encourage instructors to allow their students to be more creative in how they learn material. To conclude, this research may enable scholars to explore ways to thoroughly educate lower-income individuals using effective learning methods and to understand the best educational practices for engaging those who do not care about nature in understanding the threats that invasive species pose to their livelihoods.
Recommended Citation
Miniello, Francesco L., "Learning that Sticks: How Students Remember Invasive Species Through Different Learning Methods" (2025). Honors College Theses. 404.
https://digitalcommons.pace.edu/honorscollege_theses/404
E-Sign Agreement
1
Included in
Biodiversity Commons, Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Educational Methods Commons, Environmental Studies Commons