The Education and Human Resources (EHR) Directorate at the National Science Foundation has been examining its role in supporting the development of new approaches to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. This article explores what it means to be scientifically literate, what it takes to become a learning organization,…

The instrumental relationship to nature and the realist epistemology that dominate the analysis of contemporary environmental issues have prompted me to develop an interest in a socialized conception of science in environmental education (EE) so as to throw into question a certain overappreciation of scientific expertise whenever the environment…

The changes in the statutory science curriculum specification for all students aged 14-15 in England and Wales in 2006 herald a shift in how curriculum content is organized, and the purposes for science learning. In a curriculum for scientific literacy the selection of social situations and scientific controversies determines the knowledge that is…

This article presents people from many walks of life, including some well-known names, who share their views about science. Adam Hart-Davis, who studied chemistry at university and is now an author, photographer, historian and broadcaster, explains why science cannot start too soon. Lis Nairn, Manager, Stratigraphy, with Fugro Robertson Ltd (Oil…

This brochure provides information about Project 2061's Benchmarks for Science Literacy. It includes background information on the development of Benchmarks, a rationale for developing scientific literacy in the general public, a list of those individuals and groups who could benefit most from using Benchmarks, a comparison of Benchmarks and the…

Differentiates between utopian societies and their opposite, anti-utopias. Cites literary works which refer to the relationships between utopias and technology. Provides a bibliography of works cited as well as secondary sources. (TW)

Advocates that reflection and discussion about the limits of science should be a component of science instruction. Cites examples of the limitations of science and includes suggestions for teaching science while recognizing its boundaries. (ML)

In 1996, the Scottish Consultative Council on the Curriculum set out principles for effective science education focused on the overall goal of "scientific capability." Five aspects of capability (scientific curiosity, competence, understanding, creativity, and sensitivity) are examined from theoretical and empirical perspectives,…

Reports the results of research that explores how scientific literacy sustains belief in pseudoscientific claims. The population of college biology students who were non-biology majors completed questionnaires which were assessed and used to plan instruction. (DDR)

Reported are some data on both knowledge and perception of science and technology from a sample of adults in Perth, Western Australia. The results are compared to those of the United Kingdom. Included are the sampling and survey procedure, sample questions, results, and the discussion. (KR)

Summarizes the discussions that took place within a working group of the fourth International Organization for Science and Technology Education (IOSTE) symposium. Discusses topics on materials for student use, role of teachers, repertoire of teaching strategies, influence of school setting, and evaluation. (Author)

Argues that the conventional view of public understanding of science may be an unhelpful guide to improved science education practice. Suggests that the public understanding of the "processes," instead of "contents," of science may be more useful to interpret and cope with science, technology, and society issues. (Author/YP)

Describes the start, material development, relevance, teaching methods, dissemination, evaluation, and future plan of the Science and Technology in Society (SATIS) projects. Provides a list of 100 SATIS resource units to enrich science courses for 14-16 age students. (Author/YP)

Examines Canadian undergraduate science students' views of the nature of the relationship between science, technology, and society. Reports that the science students' views are similar to those of high school graduates, and that scientific facts are the central concern when dealing with the nature of science. (Author/YP)

Discusses some issues that have long been claimed as the exclusive province of the humanities, such as brotherhood and belonging, the sense of beauty, and the meaning of human. Suggests how a knowledge of science can contribute to understanding. (YP)