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Darwin inspired research

The Charles Darwin Trust is actively engaged with research relating to Darwin, evolution, natural history and science education.


Through research within our organisation and beyond, the Trust aims to contribute to deepening the understanding of how children learn in science and how historical, cultural and philosophical ideas can support and enhance teaching and learning. Darwin’s ways of working based on simple observation and questioning have the potential to produce a powerful but accessible model for students to investigate the natural world.


We ensure our Darwin Inspired Learning programme is supported by the very latest and most relevant scientific and pedagogical research. Our education team is constantly reviewing what we do and how we do it.


The Trust is committed to drawing on and contributing to research in science education and its educators have made a significant contribution to the literature on teaching and learning in science.


Selected research:

Boulter, C. J., Reiss, M. J. & Sanders, D. L. (Eds) (2015) Darwin-Inspired Learning, Sense, Rotterdam.

Grace, M, Hanley, P and Johnson, S, 2008. Darwin-Inspired Science. School Science Review. 90(331), 71-77.

Goldie-Morrison, K, 2009. Major Influences on Charles Darwin. Heritage Learning 40 (English Heritage).

Johnson, S, 2008. Teaching Children to Tackle Big Questions. Roots. 5(2), 9-11.

Johnson, S, 2008. Teaching Science Outdoors. School Science Review. 90(331), 65-70.

Keynes, R, 2009. 'I thought I'd try the telephone' - Darwin,his disciple, insects and earthworms. Journal of the Linnean Society Special Issue. 9, 79-96.

Keynes, R, 2009. Darwin's Ways of Working - an Opportunity for Education. Journal of Biological Education. 43(3), 101-103.

Maloney, J, Johnson, S &Goldie-Morrison, K, 2011. A Memorable Day Out. Primary Science Review. 119, 30-32.