About
The Theory of evolution is a reference framework for all Biosciences. The concepts of natural selection, adaptation, diversity, common ancestor, are applied in many fields beyond Biology, including the social and human Sciences. The concepts and implications of the Theory of evolution are not taught systematically today in the Secondary Education and not even in departments of Greek Universities with relevant subjects (like Medicine). Due to this deficit, ordinary people but also young scientists often tend to be influenced by inaccuracies and pseudoscientific views or arbitrary interpretations of the evolutionary concepts leading to irrational and dangerous practices. We aim to the design of a strategy for the propagation of the concepts of evolution across all educational levels, from primary education to university, with scientifically sound and interactive manner, using modern educational tools. For this purpose, we propose to create LUCAS, a Research, Innovation and Dissemination Hub at the Institute of Biosciences of the University of Ioannina Research Center, in collaboration with the Region of Epirus and the Regional Directorate for the Primary and Secondary Education of Ioannina. We will develop educational material employing the concepts of evolution to address major and timely issues including (1) pseudoscience, (2) multiculturalism, (3) environment and climatic change, (4) health and disease. This educational material will be uploaded at the LUCAS Hub and will be tested with a series of pilot lessons at primary and secondary schools, including intercultural education, second chance, model schools, and at University Departments representing different academic fields. The educational material has been designed to be adaptable to the different educational levels of the target groups and the teaching methods to be applied include digital educational environments and massive open online courses.
