"What is best for their little part of the world"integrating ethnobiology with K-12 science education

The effect of written free list survey type and age on ethnobiological survey response was tested in St. George, SC (US). The research was designed to empower K-12 science teachers with methods to incorporate local ethnobiological knowledge into standards-driven science education. Analysis of quantitative data related to total responses at the folk specific and folk generic levels indicate that age is a statistically-relevant factor to consider when recruiting participants for similar research. Survey type (general free lists versus specific free lists) is marginally important; specific free lists produced a larger number of responses at both the folk specific and folk generic levels, but the difference was not statistically significant. Because of the ease of sorting and analysis through the use of readily-available software (Microsoft Excel), the methods outlined in the research can be employed by K-12 science teachers to create classroom materials and three-dimensional learning environments that will make science more relevant for young students.