Dianne L. Anderson

Dianne L. Anderson is a Professor of Biology and Program Director for the Master of Science in General Biology program at Point Loma Nazarene University. Her academic career spans teaching at both undergraduate and graduate levels, alongside pioneering research in biology education and conceptual understanding.

• Ph.D. in Math & Science Education from University of California, San Diego
• M.S. in Biology from San Diego State University
• B.S. in Biology from Northwest Nazarene College

Dr. Anderson's research focuses on improving student comprehension of complex biology topics through tools like the Conceptual Inventory of Natural Selection (CINS) and biology concept cartoons. Her work has contributed to national science education standards by identifying conceptual barriers and developing targeted assessment methods. The CINS was revised in 2013 to enhance accessibility across educational levels, while her concept cartoons provide interactive teaching resources for educators.

Her publications span biology education research (2002, 2003, 2010) and foundational immunology (1989). Anderson also integrates her extensive collection of 110+ plant species into coursework, emphasizing applied biology practices.