Animals on Treadmills
Critical Thinking and Public Perception of Science
Author(s)
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Denver
robin.tinghitella@du.edu
Abstract
This group-based, interrupted case study challenges students' perceptions of "useful" scientific research. We present student groups with the methods used in two scientific studies that have been heavily scrutinized in the popular media. Both research programs gained notoriety for their seemingly ridiculous methods that each included running animals on treadmills. Students are first asked to develop potential scientific questions and hypotheses that may have been addressed by the studies. Next, we share the real hypotheses tested, and ask students to interpret data presented in the resulting publications. Finally, students are led through a discussion that challenges their initial perceptions of the research, considers whether the science was presented in an unbiased manner by the media, and cultivates mindfulness about how critical thinking can change one's initial perceptions. We developed this case study for a lower-division biology undergraduate course in ecology. However, it can be adapted for introductory-biology or upper-division biology major courses, and/or undergraduate students majoring outside of the sciences.
Objectives
- Distinguish between basic and applied research.
- Develop questions and testable hypotheses.
- Practice critical thinking skills.
- Critically evaluate news sources.
- Interpret figures and analyze statistical reports.
- Evaluate the value of basic research.
Keywords
Basic research; applied research; useful research; science and the media; puma; mountain lion; cougar; shrimp; misrepresentation; treadmill; media biasTopical Areas
Scientific method, Science and the mediaEducational Level
High school, Undergraduate lower division, General public & informal educationFormat
PDF, PowerPointType / Methods
Directed, Discussion, Interrupted, Mini-CaseLanguage
EnglishSubject Headings
Biology (General) | Science (General) | Science Education |
Date Posted
8/28/2017Teaching Notes
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Supplemental Materials
There are several supplemental materials associated with this case for instructors to use. They include (1) an optional PowerPoint presentation, which reviews concepts relevant to this case, including the distinction of applied vs. basic research, proximate vs. ultimate causes, and the testability of hypotheses and (2) two Science Friday podcasts.
treadmill.pptx (~101KB)
Scientists Speak Out About Attacks on Science
Undiscovered - The Wastebook
Answer Key
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Videos
The following video(s) are recommended for use in association with this case study.
- Mountain Lion Training and Treadmills
Video showing puma (mountain lion) running on a treadmill, produced for the research of Williams et al., 2014, “Instantaneous energetics of puma kills reveal advantage of felid sneak attacks,” Science 346:81–85. Running time: 0:53 min. Produced by T.M. Williams et al., 2014. - The Original Shrimp on Treadmill
Video showing shrimp on treadmill produced by David Scholnick, of Pacific University Oregon and his colleague, College of Charleston Lou Burnett. Running time: 1:39 min. Produced by David Scholnick and Lou Burnett, 2009.