I would like you to try the "Merian" test. This is an elementary test on Lepidoptera to assess the knowledge of BSc and/or MSc students. It would be more than interesting to compare this knowledge with that of Merian in 1679 and of students of various countries these days. If anybody decides to cooperate with me, please send a brief answer. You can find more data in the MS Merian file attached.
Dear András,
thanks for sharing your ideas. What kind of questions would you like to answer with this possible project?
Dear Vivian,
It depends not on me. It depends on what and how the students studied. However, I think the questions are really elementary. As I wrote my aim would be to compare the knowledge level of students of different countries and as well making a comparison of their knowlegde with that of Merian. I am afraid in some cases the general knowledge level cannot approach that of Merian.
I think that the results would only show if the students ever came in contact to this specific topic or not. If they e.g. visited a lesson of a prof who is an expert for lepidoptera they could know all the answers. If not this does not mean that they have a lower knowledge level in general. What do you think?
Vivian,
I mentioned students of entomology, zoology or agriculture (crop protection). In their case the questions or the knowledge demanded are really elementary. I am sure that even high school pupils should know about 50-60% of the good answers. You are German, please visit the given home page and read the original text of Merian. Of course, she made some mistakes but her whole book is a great achievement.
Dear Sumodan,
I am glad because of your willingness. I think you can start the test at least with 20? students at BSc or MSc maybe at both levels. The methodology of evaluation is given but you should evaluate and grade the tests according to the taught modifications in your country or institute. I f you have any question please do not hesitate and ask me. Certainly, the name of your institute will not be published.
It's really interesting this test. And, I would like to know more about this entomologist, Merian.
Dear Alexandra,
It is enough to write into Google : Maria Sibylla Merian. I propose you to look at her paintings and copperplates, too.
Dear András,
I'll try to buy the Merian's books that I found. This book seems to be very interesting. I think is great incentive for butterflies study. Thank you!
Dear Alexandra,
It seems to me that you must have German origin. If you can read in German you are able to follow the original Merian text indicated in the MS Merian.docx.
Last week I delivered a lecture on Merian's knowledge about Lepidoptera and I presented Vanessa atalanta (Nymphalidae) with the text and copperplate of Merian.
I hope you will get the Merian book.
Sorry, András. I found the book about the work of Merian. This book was written by Kim Todd in 2007. I would like to read the Merian book, but unfortunately I can't read in German. Perhaps several years from...
Dear Alexandra,
I hope your book will be facinating. If I have some time I will translate a page for you in order to have a feeling. :-)
Dear András Bozsik,
I saw the digital book of Maria Sibylla Merian. It's fantastic! Thank you a lot.
And, I also thank you for the excerpt.
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