Loisann Fowler, Apologia Live Classes Instructor: "There is an amazing awareness of God’s power of creation as we observe the various parts of living organisms. As you identify that the heart is made of tough and muscular material and how it is centrally located to the body versus the softer kidneys or the other organs and their placement, you begin to ask yourself, 'How did these cells know to form this as they divided? How do heart cells know to be heart cells and how do liver cells know to be liver cells? What is driving this complexity?' This experience drives us to a better understanding of the power of our Creator.

There is rich detail beyond words when participating in a dissection, which cannot be experienced through watching a video. Is it messy? It can be. Does it take some forethought and preparation? Certainly, but less than many think. Among Live Classes students, we hear repeatedly, 'The dissection was so cool! I didn’t think I’d like it, but it was my favorite part of this class!' Even the most reluctant express, 'Though I didn’t necessarily enjoy it, I’m glad I did it.'"

Sherri Seligson, scientist and author of Exploring Creation with General Science, 3rd edition, and Exploring Creation with Marine Biology: "[Live dissections] prepare us in many ways for adulthood. Watching a video of a dissection removes us from deep observation. We look at the images and may just think everything is 'gross.' But when you are doing a dissection for yourself, you are more aware of what living beings look like on the inside. You are learning more than you realize. As a parent, I cannot tell you how many times it was helpful to me to know and understand what makes up our bodies. Through stitches, broken bones, other injuries and sicknesses, I have a greater understanding of how to care for my children and to be there for them as they are scared with blood running down their forehead or with swelling ankles."

Matt Barclay, Apologia Live Classes Instructor, Video Producer at Apologia: "Instead of visiting Disneyland, the beach, or their favorite vacation destination, would we rather watch a video of someone else at that same location? Of course not. Why not? Because it’s not the same as being there. There’s a true value in experience. Listening to a recording of a symphony isn’t the same as sitting in the orchestra seats and feeling the resonance in your whole body."

Although students may not pursue a science major in college, we believe that the discipline in doing real dissections is necessary for college and will be used broadly in many aspects of life.