In this paper, I argue that characterisations of life through lists of properties have several shortcomings and should be replaced by theory-based accounts that explain the coexistence of a set of properties in living beings. The concept of life should acquire its meaning from its relationships with other concepts inside a theory. I illustrate…

This article is an attempt to critique some of the limitations of dominant school reform discourses in education, drawing upon the work of Michel Foucault, Michael Apple, Maxine Greene, and Dennis Carlson, in addition to writers in the emerging field of what might be called "eco-progressivism." The intersections between ecology and education can…

Presents a case study of the teaching practices of a biology teacher in Western Australia. Identifies practices considered exemplary for analysis by biology teachers and teacher educators. Discusses the methodology of the study and the qualities of exemplary teaching. (CW)

Examination of controversial scientific issues provide an accurate picture of science. Examples, drawn from the physical and life sciences, show how complex and subtle scientific issues may be; how difficult it may be to perform and interpret experiments; and how science constitutes a vigorous, self-correcting mode of inquiry. (Contains 45…