Central to this teacher enhancement project is the trainng of teachers in the scientific method of research in a zoo setting. Classroom teachers that have been working with the principal investigator have expressed high interest and a need for upgrading of knowledge in course discussions and course evaluations during l987. Input from these teacher educators, science educators, scientists, and zoo personnel was used to construct an inservice plan. The three-phase plan involves 20 elementary and middle school teachers (grades 4-7) in spring, summer and fall workshops and seminars with follow-up evaluation by the project directors. Ethology, the application of scientific methods to the study of behavior and basic life science concepts in animal adaptation, animanl endangerment, and animal diversity of lifestyle will comprise the science content used to develop curriculum projects in animal behavioral research. State in more general terms the outcomes of this project will be in the improvement of instruction and knowledge about life sciences and the use of the scientific method of research. This project has the potential to impact on the staff development program of the schools in the area as well as on the teacher preparation program at the University of Louisville. An amount equivalent to 62% of the NSF request has been contributed to the total cost of the project by the University of Louisville, the Louisville Zoo and the Jefferson County Public Schools.
