ABSTRACT

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book shares contextual information related to science education in the Asia-Pacific region. Education is by its nature socio-culturally embedded. Consistent with international trends, there is an active pursuit of more engaging science education in the Asia-Pacific region. The Asia-Pacific region is well known for its wide range of geographical, political, economic, and religious diversity, both among and within the countries in the region. The consistent excellent performance of students in parts of the Asia-Pacific region in large-scale international comparisons such as the Trends in Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and the Programme for International Student Achievement (PISA) has generated intense curiosity among local and global scholars regarding how science is being learned and how science learning is supported.