Movement of a Bean Shoot: An Introduction to Chronobiology

An active learning exercise that focuses on movements (circum-nutations) of climbing bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.; cv. Kentucky Wonder, pole bean) has been successfully incorporated into the curriculum of educational institutions to introduce the subject of chronobiology to students. This didactic activity, which involves an ultradian rhythm, can be completed within a span of 2-4 h, fits into the schedule of various courses, uses materials commonly found in classrooms, requires a time commitment of only a few minutes from each student, and can be modified to include a circadian rhythm project. Ultimately, students develop a better understanding about parameters and characteristics of rhythms, analytical procedures, and the temporal organization of life.