Ending Classroom Dissection
Transforming Science Classrooms
Animal Use in Science is Normalized
Animals are estimated to be dissected in the U.S. every year
States protect a student’s right to opt out of dissection.
Did you know?
Why is teaching humane science important if not everyone wants to become a scientist?
When we are taught at an early age that animal research is the standard for how science is conducted, we are desensitized to the cruelty of the practice and accept it as the norm. By teaching humane science, students can think critically about research that affects all of us, and continue to be informed citizens that value what is most effective and most humane.
What humane dissection products do you recommend?
Since every classroom is different, we don’t recommend specific products, but you can use our humane product catalog to narrow down your search.
Classroom dissection has become ingrained in the way science is taught
Benefits of Using Humane Models for Classroom Dissections
Humane. Cost effective. Environmentally friendly. Smart.
When given post lab learning assessments, students who conduct humane dissections do just as well as or better than their peers who do traditional dissections1.
Specimens preserved with formalin can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. Preserved specimens smell awful and require extra teacher labor for lab set up and disposal.
Many humane dissection tools are reusable year after year while animal specimens are single-use. Many animal specimens are sourced from the wild, causing disruptions to natural habitats.
Many models are less expensive than preserved animal specimens. Some are even available for free.
Make Your Case as a Student to Opt‑Out of Dissection
There are smarter and more humane ways to learn science
Many states and school districts have policies protecting a student’s right to opt out of dissection. Most teachers will allow students to opt out of dissection exercises if they ask.
Dissection is inhumane, expensive, and unnecessary for successful learning.
There are over 100 different dissection replacement tools on the market. Explore them in our humane product catalog.
Encourage your teacher to apply for a BioLEAP Classroom Grant if they need funding.
Our mission: change the way science it taught
Our BioLEAP program seeks to make science education more humane by eliminating animal dissection in the classroom and teaching students about ethical replacements for animals used in research.
How We Transform Science Classrooms
BioLEAP Classroom Grant
Engage with Teachers
By attending conferences across the country, NAVS is able to speak face-to-face with teachers and learn how we can help.
Animal Use in Science: Exploring the 3Rs
BioLEAP offers lesson plans and curriculum on the 3 Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) to teach students about important concepts related to the use of animals in research and testing. .
- We’re Changing Classrooms
The Latest in Science Education
Read below for the latest news in science education and BioLEAP
