Teaching materials and curriculum research focusing on biological pigments of organisms

In order to enhance students' understanding of scientific concepts, a curriculum that includes learning designs of experiments and experiencing scientific concepts in action is key. Professor Kouji Takeda, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan, is developing experimental teaching materials for high school biology students consisting of experimental and scientific techniques and knowledge of microorganisms, plants, and animals. Takeda believes that instilling in students a deep appreciation of nature is important as it fosters respect for the environment and contributes to the promotion of sustainability. His goal in designing new teaching materials is to improve students' research abilities and foster their connection with micro- and macro perspective in the environment. Takeda and his team have three pillars of educational research: curriculum research; teaching material research; and research of instruction, which are key foci for the researchers. The researchers have set learning goals for a deeper understanding of living things and have built a theoretical framework for the curriculum. In particular, it is important for students to investigate and understand the importance of substances in living organisms. This ties into the teaching material research, which focuses on finding a system, or model organism, in which this could be experimentally demonstrated and explored. Then, the plan is for Takeda and the team to conduct the teaching material research in schools. This will comprise tests and interviews with students and teachers, as well as observations, with a view to demonstrating the significance of the curriculum and teaching material research.