Entomology, Department of
Department of Entomology: Distance Master of Science Projects
First Advisor
Erin Bauer
Date of this Version
2024
Document Type
Project
Citation
ENTO 888, MS project
Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2024
Abstract
This qualitative experiment encourages the integration of entomology-based activities into a preschool curriculum. The researcher aligns her children's preschool experience with tailored art projects and hands-on activities centered around the tomato hornworm, Manduca quinquemaculata, and Madagascar hissing cockroaches, Gromphadorhina portentosa. Following the activity, surveys were administered to parents and teachers to evaluate their perceived value of the lesson. Additionally, questions were asked to ascertain if the child recalled the activities participated in and to capture their emotional responses to the experience. The intention of this study was to create a clear lesson plan that can be easily implemented by preschool teachers into their classrooms. The lesson plan aims to introduce preschoolers to insects and basic insect anatomy, while fostering curiosity, appreciation for insects, and developing fine motor skills through hands-on activities. This study highlights the importance of early exposure to entomology, believing early insect education could help alleviate the rising demand for entomology-related positions by fostering an interest in relevant fields among younger generations.
Comments
Copyright 2024, Macey Keith. Used by permission