Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Classical Studies
Thesis Advisor
Anita Simpkins, Ph.D.
Committee Professor
Aimee Franklin, Ph.D
Abstract
AN EXPOSITORY ANALYSIS OF TEXTBOOK USAGE IN CLASSICAL SETTINGS FOR HIGH SCHOOL BIOLOGY
Kristen Bissontz
Southeastern University, Lakeland FL
The classical model of education has reemerged as a viable alternative to the modern education system. Many of the disciplines taught in a classical school, program or home education scenario appear to align with the classical philosophy with the exception of the sciences. This paper serves to uncover if textbooks are the primary source in classical settings, what resources are utilized, and offers suggestions to better align with the classical pedagogy.
A small sample of classical schools and programs in a five-state area were questioned on their use of biology textbooks in the classroom. Additionally, classical curriculum companies were researched as were several classical and classical Christian programs.
The findings indicate that in the sample population, the vast majority of self-described classical schools were using standard textbooks as the basis for their curriculum. Classical programs, homeschool initiatives, online sources, and books on the philosophy of classical education were also researched with mixed results.
There is a gap in the classical classroom in the area of science materials and pedagogy. Further research is needed in the form of observation in classical classrooms. A true classical science curriculum that returns biology to the realm of natural science philosophy is needed.
Recommended Citation
Bissontz, Kristen, "AN EXPOSITORY ANALYSIS OF TEXTBOOK USAGE IN CLASSICAL SETTINGS FOR HIGH SCHOOL BIOLOGY" (2024). Master of Arts in Classical Studies. 12.
https://firescholars.seu.edu/classicalstudies/12
Included in
Educational Methods Commons, Science and Mathematics Education Commons, Secondary Education Commons