We've all had that student that has no interest in dissecting, or the one that just sits back and lets the group do his or her work. Absences can also be a problem. A few years ago I wrote a DonorsChoose project for digital dissection software and it turned out to be the solution to many of my dissection problems.
Dissections- Why go digital?
There are times during traditional dissections when students become more preoccupied with the cuts and guts, instead of actually learning the anatomy of the animal. Students often make incorrect cuts, get a bad specimen, are absent on critical lab days, or let their partner or group do the work for them. This assignment will solve a lot of these issues and help squeamish students dissect in a less intimidating way. While there is still a place for hands-on dissections in science, I think it is beneficial for students to experience alternatives as well or pair these with pre-lab activities so students come in to lab ready and better prepared. This computer program ensures students obtain the critical knowledge intended by dissection labs, without the smell or cost of preserved specimens. Students will have a chance to go at their own pace, repeat any areas in which they struggle, and hopefully gain a better understanding for and appreciation of animal anatomy.
So have I convinced you to go digital? I've posted a few digital dissection worksheets on TeachersPayTeachers. Please Check them out!
There are MANY virtual dissection options for FREE online, like the Froguts program I used to make the above TPT worksheets.
However, I really like the programs I purchased from Carolina Biological (they are expensive so I also did Donors Choose Projects and grants for some of them). Here are a few of my favorites. I do have worksheets to go with these as well so please reach out if you decide to purchase the programs. *I was NOT paid by Carolina Biological to promote these products in any way.
Carolina Bio Lab: Invertebrates (earthworm, crayfish, starfish, and squid)
Carolina Bio Lab: Fish (perch, shark, and lamprey)
Carolina Bio Lab: Pig
Carolina Bio Lab: Frog
I have not yet tried their Cat or fruit fly genetics labs but I hope to soon:
Carolina Bio Lab: Cat
Carolina Bio Lab: Fly
