Dissection: Alternatives

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Jan 26, 1999

You may or may not have dissection as part of your science curriculum. Those of you who do, may be facing conflicting feelings. You may be questioning your participation in this activity or wonder what your classmates may think, if you express your opinions.

Surveys conducted by the Humane Society have shown that many students have reservations about dissecting animals for educational purposes. Thousands of students, throughout the country, have chosen not to participate in dissection. Several states have already adopted laws ensuring that, "students who have strong feelings against dissection, cannot be forced to participate." The law also states that a student's grade cannot be lowered if a student objects to dissection and that an alternate project, be made available.

If the idea of harming or using animals in science makes you feel uncomfortable, don't be afraid to voice your opinion. Tell your teacher how you feel. Let them know you are willing to do an alternative project in place of the dissection. If your school still uses real animals in learning physiology and anatomy talk to other students. They may have the same feelings and concerns. Start a group and perhaps petition the school to use alternative methods.

Alternatives to dissection range from CD ROMS to plastic models. In comparison, models and computer software are less costly to the school in the long run. They can be used by many students for many years. If your school does not have any of these or the budget to purchase them, there are free programs you can use on the web. Another thing you may want to try is your local bookstore. There are some really great science coloring books to learn about anatomy and biology.

Dissection is a personal decision and as such no one should fault another for their decision, to participate or decline from this activity. Schools need to consider the student's ethical and personal beliefs. Explore the sites below to learn more about the alternatives and to gain more knowledge. It will help you to be a better advocate, at your school. Some of the sites below are graphic in detail and some are made by using real models so use caution when using these sites.

One point I would like you to think about and consider is, if you are doing dissection in your class use common sense. Always wear gloves when handling your specimens and afterwards wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Your lab should have proper hand washing techniques on the wash basin wall. Scientists never handle specimens without the proper cautions and neither should you.

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The copyright of the article Dissection: Alternatives in Science for Kids is owned by Mary M. Alward. Permission to republish Dissection: Alternatives in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.