Dissection Choice

Alternatives to Dissecting Dead Animals

Middle-school and secondary New Mexico students do not have to dissect animals. New Mexico Public Education Department policy [6.29.1.11 B (8)] states (bolded by APNM for emphasis): “…All science classes that include dissection activities as part of the curriculum shall provide virtual dissection techniques as alternative activities for any student who is opposed to real dissections for ethical, moral, cultural or religious reasons. Alternative techniques shall approximate the experience of real dissection activities as closely and appropriately as possible. A virtual dissection technique means carrying out dissection activities using computer two-dimensional or three-dimensional simulations, videotapes or videodisk simulations, take-apart anatomical models, photographs or anatomical atlases.”

The American Anti-Vivisection Society’s Animalearn offers a free lending library of humane science products to schools, teachers and students. Visit: http://www.animalearn.org/hello/