Salamander Modeling: Bridging the Gaps in Environmental Science Accessibility

Author Information

Grace Leopold

Abstract/Description

In the realm of science education, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all students, especially those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), is an imperative goal. IEPs are customized plans designed to support students with diverse learning needs, which can encompass a broad spectrum of disabilities and learning differences (Shaw, 2021). Providing learners with an IEP is an integral part of Special Education, however, there are a host of overarching challenges faced by students with IEPs in science education, especially in environmental science classes. In this thesis, the development and application of clay salamander models are evaluated for their potential to provide access to hands-on environmental science education for special education students. The research focuses on establishing a replicable module that facilitates equitable participation while considering the resource constraints typical in educational settings.

Note on the Author

Grace Leopold is a graduating senior and Departmental Honors student, double-majoring in Biology and Secondary Education. Her research was completed over two years (2022-2024) under the mentorship of Dr. Caitlin Fisher-Reid (Department of Biological Sciences) and made possible with funding provided by an NSF IUSE Grant and multiple Adrian Tinsley Program semester grants. Her passion for science education emerged at a young age through her involvement in the Massachusetts Science and Engineering Fair circuit. In 2018, her research was recognized with the Eleanor A. Tishler Award for a Brighter Future at MIT. She was also awarded "Most Engaging Presentation" in 2022 at the Student Arts & Research Symposium for “Optimizing Casting Molds for Clay Salamanders.” After graduating from BSU in 2024, she plans to work as a high school Biology teacher, advocating for inclusive environmental science education for all.

Recommended Citation

Leopold, Grace (2024). Salamander Modeling: Bridging the Gaps in Environmental Science Accessibility. Undergraduate Review, 18, 34-45.
Available at: https://vc.bridgew.edu/undergrad_rev/vol18/iss1/7

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