What are the pros and cons of animal dissections in schools?

Please feel free to check out this post, which covers the topics I will be discussing as well as a few others.

One advantage of dissecting animals is that it provides a tactile and sensory element that most visual learning does not. People tend to remember things that they can handle and experience firsthand, and dissections of animals are a great way to provide students with a better learning experience that will benefit them in subsequent classes.

Furthermore, all biological supply companies must undergo routine inspections by the USDA, which are expected by these businesses and cover sanitation and other care issues.

Another plus is that most students don't mind; they know what's expected of them and don't bring it up. Moreover, many classes hold debate-style discussions to determine whether or not dissection is appropriate for the class.

Now let's talk about the drawbacks. The first is that a great deal of animals are used for dissection; for instance, about 6 million frogs are dissected annually in the US alone. There are also 6,000 dogs, 2,700 cats, and 7,500 chimpanzees that are used. Because some animals are born specifically for experimentation, this can make students less sensitive to the idea of animal testing.

The second drawback is rather obvious: dissections may be required for veterinary services, and dissections may not aid in pursuing that career path. Some children will not enjoy it and may even be traumatized by it. This traumatization may prevent some individuals from pursuing a science-oriented career any further.

Another drawback is that it could make participants less compassionate toward animals, which could result in abuse, neglect, and cruelty. The act of cutting a dead animal could desensitize them to the point that they see cutting into live animals as acceptable as well.

Pros:

1. Hands-on learning: Allows students to understand anatomy and physiology through direct observation and manipulation.
2. Development of practical skills: Helps students develop skills in dissection techniques, which may be valuable for future careers in science or medicine.
3. Enhanced understanding: Provides a deeper understanding of biological concepts and structures compared to solely relying on textbooks or diagrams.

Cons:

1. Ethical concerns: Raises ethical issues related to the use of animals for educational purposes, especially for those who oppose animal experimentation.
2. Emotional impact: Can be emotionally distressing for some students, particularly those who are sensitive to animal welfare or have personal beliefs against harming animals.
3. Environmental impact: Raises environmental concerns related to the sourcing and disposal of specimens, as well as the potential use of harmful chemicals during the preservation process.