Biology losing dissection classes

By Tim Ross

Published: 25 May 2007

Scientists warned today that practical biology lessons in which pupils dissect animals in class are in danger of disappearing from schools.

The Institute of Biology said a snapshot survey showed more than eight out of 10 teachers thought practical lessons had declined significantly over 20 years.

Time pressures in a packed curriculum, inadequate teacher training and confusion over health and safety were blamed for the decline.

Professor Alan Malcolm, chief executive of the institute said: "It would be dreadful to see dissection go, because it provides such an important complement to the biology curriculum."

Neil Roscoe, head of education at the institute, added: "There have been many pressures on dissection in recent years - not least the numbers of teachers taking classes outside their specialism and... ambiguities over health and safety.

"It is a shame, because nowhere else can students gain a sense of wonder in the intricacies of nature.

"A student inspired by practical lessons might well go on to a career in medicine or other bio-science area."

Survey responses were received from 186 teachers.

A Department for Education and Skills spokesman said it was down to schools to decide whether dissection was appropriate. He added: "We know that large numbers of students are still taking up biology post-16 - up every year since 2003 - and recognise the importance of practical skills, which is why we are already looking at ways in which they can be improved."