Commentary on Section I

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the content of the first section of the book highlighting factors that influence the acceptance and understanding of evolution. These factors are described as constraints within the child, the specific task, and the broader social-cultural environment. It is argued that some of these constraints may lead to misconceptions, and that discussion of how multiple constraints interact to influence both acceptance and understanding of evolution may help educators design more effective methods for teaching about evolution. Other implications for education drawn from the individual chapters are highlighted.