We have developed a new and innovative plant biology course for non-science majors that will challenge our students to develop and use a scientific approach to problem solving. Our laboratories are designed to teach the process of science by having students collect, organize, and interpret quantitative data. Labs will also require students to formulate hypotheses and design experiments. By using this approach, we hope to increase scientific literacy by giving our students skills to critically examine scientific data and to evaluate current scientific issues. Improvements to this course will significantly affect undergraduate education at the University of Maryland.
