Rockman et al conducted a thorough, multi-component evaluation of University of California Museum of Paleontology's (UCMP) Understanding Evolution Web site. The site provides an online resource for teachers to use in teaching evolution. The site also provides classroom resources: a conceptual framework, a suite of evaluated lessons appropriate for different grade spans, and teaching strategies to avoid or overcome roadblocks to teaching evolution. Over the course of the Web site’s development, Rockman et al evaluated multiple aspects of the Web site and its constituent elements, ranging from its appeal and utility, to its ability to help users understand new concepts and acquire strategies for and confidence in teaching evolution. The evaluation included summative elements designed to explore the impact of the site on its target populations. Evaluations also included an evaluation of an interactive student module, "The Arthropod Story." This evaluation measured student learning, as well as the module's appeal and usefulness for teaching science concepts. Rockman also did a formative evaluation of the comic strip, "Survival of the Sneakiest," measuring impact on student learning and the appeal of the comic strip. In addition, Rockman conducted market research for areas of further Web site development.

REPORTS:

New Features Teacher Web Site on Evolution
Summary to NSF (2004) (pdf) | Full Report (2005) (pdf)

Survival of the Sneakiest Impact Study (October 2005)
Executive Summary (pdf) | Full Report (pdf)

RESOURCES:

Understanding Evolution
The Arthropod Story
Survival of the Sneakiest