Nature of Science FPLC Brown 2005-6
From CTLpedia
Reflections on my Experience in the Nature of Science Faculty and Professional Learning Community, Peter Brown, Life Science Department, Mesa Community College, Contact me
Sumary: My project summary.
Nature of Science FPLC Background
See Nature of Science FPLC group pages...
My Initial Views on Nature of Science
I came into the group with the idea that science is a way to explore the natural world based on hypothesis testing and experimentation.
Nature of Science FPLC Activities Experienced
I did readings and discussed some of the historical views of science as well as the interaction between science, culture and society. I also traveled to Kansas City for a conference on science instruction and teaching.
Reflection on my Experience in Nature of Science FPLC
I am much more open-minded to different approaches to science. I am much more willing to allow students to discuss phenomena without interrupting to tell them the “right” answer. While I do teach “Hypothesis testing” and “Experimentation” in my classes, I have a better appreciation for other approaches to science such as model building. I am also more open to alternative approaches to assessment other than recall and recognition on written exams.
Final Reflection on Nature of Science in Teaching and Learning
I am less inclined to tell my students that “This is how science is done.” I am more open-minded to different avenues of the study of nature, and more willing to work with students who may wish to take unconventional approaches to the study of nature.
Annotated Resources and References on Nature of Science
- The Nature of Science in Science Education: Rationales and Strategies. McComas, W.F. (ed)., 1998, Kluwer Academic Publishers, vol. 5, 365 p.Key Chapters: Chapters 1, 3, & 4.
- Benchmarks in Science Education & Atlas of Science Literacy, Project 2061, American Association for the Advancement of Science. Now available online at: http://www.project2061.org/publications/bsl/online/bolintro.htm
