 |
Mathematics And Science
Teacher Education Program |
CONTROVERSY IN THE CLASSROOM
The primary purpose of Science Education (in fact all of general education)
is to prepare citizens who are able to function successfully in a very diverse
World. The literate person will be able to make informed decisions about a
variety of complex questions. Because our World is so dependent upon science
and technology, a basic understanding of scientific concepts and processes is
essential.
Certain concepts and topics in science may evoke emotional responses from
some people. A person may feel that a scientific concept is in conflict with
his/her basic religious or personal beliefs. These are often referred to as
"socially sensitive" issues, e.g. Evolution, Animal Rights, Conservation,
Abortion, Genetic Engineering, etc. How can science teachers deal with these
kinds of issues?
Science is a way of knowing; it is not the only way to know. Teachers must
emphasize science as a process that allows one to discover knowledge. A
student is not bound by science, per se; however, he/she does need to
understand the concepts and methods of science. Once this is achieved the
student can decide whether or not to believe it. In addition, students come
to the classroom with knowledge (much of which might be called
misconceptions). We need to identify these misconceptions and lead students
to a more scientific understanding of the World.
Science presents concepts and knowledge. It does not make value judgments
(i.e. good or bad). It is people who make value judgments. It is a goal of
science education to give people a way to solve problems and acquire
information which can be used to make value judgments. Value judgments lead
to the formation of controversy.
Science teachers must be aware of potential controversial issues. They must
deal with these in an objective way using accepted scientific concepts and
evidence. The teacher must be aware and sensitive to the wide array of
beliefs that may be represented in the classroom. This does not mean the
teacher needs to avoid teaching about controversial issues. However, the
teacher must present the material using acceptable scientific evidence and not
exceed the limits of science. Do not be afraid to say "I don't know" or
"That
is out of the realm of science", when you are unable to answer a question
because it is outside your area of expertise or is not a question of science.
Science teachers should be familiar with the scientific concepts and
knowledge of each of these sensitive issues and the possible controversies
(arguments, values, etc.). Following are some topics that may prove to be
controversial in the classroom:
1. Conservation
2. Nuclear energy and other energy issues
3. Animal use in science and classroom
4. Evolution
5. Population growth
6. Reproduction including birth control and abortion
7. Fetal tissue use in experiments
8. Genetic engineering
9. Prolonging human life
