DEVELOPING SCIENTIFIC LITERACY OF BIOLOGY STUDENTS THROUGH THE STUDY OF FUNGAL DISEASES AFFECTING JUNIPERUS VIRGINIANA L

Abstract

In contemporary biological science, the study of fungal diseases in plants plays a crucial role in ensuring phytosanitary stability, safeguarding biodiversity, and understanding the ecological resilience of introduced species. This research examines fungal pathogens affecting Juniperus virginiana L. and analyzes their biological characteristics through the application of morphological-diagnostic phytopathological methods. The findings highlight the multifactorial nature of disease development and demonstrate how pathogen biology interacts with regional environmental conditions, offering important insights for ecological monitoring and plant health assessment.

The pedagogical dimension of the study integrates inquiry-based learning principles to strengthen scientific literacy among biology students. By engaging learners in authentic research activities that involve observation, interpretation, and scientific explanation of phytopathological data, the study illustrates the effectiveness of inquiry-driven instruction in developing core scientific competencies. Students participating in this approach demonstrated enhanced ability to apply biological concepts, conduct research tasks, formulate evidence-based interpretations, and communicate scientific findings in a structured manner.

Overall, the research confirms that combining phytopathological investigation with inquiry-oriented pedagogy establishes a comprehensive framework for cultivating scientific literacy in higher education. This integrated methodology promotes analytical thinking, methodological accuracy, and a research-oriented mindset, contributing to the preparation of future biologists capable of addressing complex problems in plant health and environmental science