This paper discusses pedagogical advantages and challenges of using science-fiction movies and television shows in an introductory science class for elementary teachers. The authors describe two instructional episodes in which scenes from the movies "Red Planet" and "The Core" were used to engage students in critiquing science as presented in…

The term "science fiction" has become synonymous, in the media at least, for any discovery in science too incredible or unexpected for the nonscientist to imagine. One of the most common classroom uses of science fiction is for students to pick out flaws in science fiction movies or television shows. Unfortunately, this approach can result in…

Presents ideas for teachers on how to use science fiction to stimulate learning in all subject areas. (JMB)

A look at how science fiction can be used in the classroom as an exercise in speculating on possible alternate futures. (AK)

Stories and poems are the mainstay of primary education; children of all ages love them and children themselves are capable of writing very powerful material. Using poems, stories and songs in science allows children to access science from a different point of view. In this article, the author makes some suggestions and presents a list of useful…

The use of science fiction for teaching thermodynamics to introductory students is described. The universality and the tremendous predictive power of thermodynamics is demonstrated.

Explains how college level teachers of geography can use works of science fiction to help students understand geographical settings and create impressionistic pictures of a given region in their minds. Particular areas in which science fiction is useful include invented terrestrial landscapes, specialized extraterrestrial landscapes, disaster…

Topic 1, The Ancient Greeks, of a theme issue on Teaching World History Through Science Fiction utilizes this story reprinted from Horror Times Ten. (JB)

Describes the growing respect for science fiction as a genre of literature and discusses possible uses of science fiction in the classroom. (MKM)

Defines the boundaries between "realist" literature and science fiction and fantasy. Describes science fiction writing assignments. Mentions science fiction and fantasy books suitable for the uninitiated reader. (RS)

Explores ways that science fiction can be used in the classroom in discussions of world affairs, social studies, and science. (HOD)

Suggests that Isaac Asimov's science fiction is a legitimate teaching device; it is easy to read and of high interest to students. (JM)

Lists eight methods for preparing to teach and for teaching science fiction: among others, the "superstar" method, the "make a monster method," and the "alternate probable reality" method. (KS)

Considers science fiction as an imaginative forum to focus on the relationships between science, culture, and society. Outlines some of the ways in which using the genre can help achieve a dynamic and pluralistic understanding of the nature and evolution of science. (Author/KHR)

Addresses two misunderstandings about science fiction and fantasy: that fantastic literature is not serious; and that modern scientific civilization neither has nor needs mythology. Argues that values can be transmitted through science fiction and fantasy, which are modern-day forms of mythology. (RS)