Work

Integrating Parasitoid-Microbe Research into Middle School Curriculum: Development and Assessment of the Symbiosis and Other Relationships Module

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study describes the collaborative development and assessment of middle school curriculum materials that translate parasitoid wasp research into classroom activities. Through a three-way partnership among university researchers, curriculum specialists, and teachers, the _Symbiosis and Other Relationships_ module integrates authentic experimental data from parasitoid-virus-host interactions into standards-aligned learning experiences. The curriculum uses parasitoid wasps—insects whose larvae develop inside host caterpillars with assistance from symbiotic viruses—as an anchoring phenomenon for exploring ecological relationships. Students analyze authentic research data showing growth differences between parasitized and non-parasitized caterpillars, then investigate complex three-way relationships among wasps, viruses, and hosts through online and paper-based activities. A two-phase, quasi-experimental study involving 680 middle school students across diverse geographic regions found statistically significant learning gains. Overall effect size was large (d = 0.72); objective-specific gains ranged from small to moderate (d = 0.24–0.60). Students demonstrated the strongest improvements in understanding species interdependence and relationship classification, while gains in multi-organism dynamics were smaller but remained statistically significant. Findings provide empirical support for integrating authentic research phenomena into middle school science instruction while maintaining developmental appropriateness. The curriculum development process demonstrates how intermediary organizations can facilitate effective research-to-practice translation, offering a replicable model for university-K12 partnerships. The curriculum is freely accessible at https://teach.genetics.utah.edu/content/symbiosis/.

Source: The Journal of STEM Outreach

DOI: 10.15695/jstem/v9i1.10