Wilmette Public Library

Scientists frequently conduct research in remote field locations, yet in close proximity to local communities. However, too often research conducted abroad involves collecting data and minimum or no engagement with local communities to communicate the broader scientific impacts. To address this deficiency, we worked with Ecuadorian school administrators, teachers, and students in the Galápagos Islands where our research group conducts evolutionary studies on the adaptive radiation of land snails. Despite the wealth of scientific research focused on evolutionary processes conducted in Galápagos, studies have shown that Ecuadorians are less accepting of evolution than other Latin American countries, so our efforts focus on this disconnect. Thus far, our engagement has centered on scientific inquiry and empirical tests of the scientific method while emphasizing the importance of biodiversity of the Archipelago. Herein, we outline our efforts to integrate our scientific work into the classroom and collaborate with teachers to design lesson plans centered on evolutionary biology. We show that building a foundation of evolution-based engagement will increase the scientific understanding of this historic evolutionary playground for local students as we continue cultivating this relationship in the future.