What is the nature of science? What do we mean by "nature". Does nature mean the great outdoors? Well, yes, but not in this case. This "nature" refers to the essence of science and what it means to really understand science.
We teach the Scientific Method in our schools today. This method sends a message to kids that science has one right answer and that you must follow specific steps to reach that answer. This message can't be further from the truth. Science is messy and there is no one "right" path. In science we collaborate, gather evidence, ask questions, reflect, and revise our ideas. These are just a few of the steps that we use and they can be used in any order. We need to be sure we are teaching our students this same understanding of science. Science is fascinating and always evolving. Our students should be excited to explore the unknown, but instead, they can't wait for class to be over. We can't expect them to be excited by a process they don't understand. We, as educators, need to take what we understand about science and integrate it into our classrooms. If I knowingly teach my students a process that I know is false, what does that make me? It is my job to be an effective teacher and ensure that my students get the best education possible.
No comments:
Post a Comment