ABSTRACT
In this section we will consider answers to this question from three differing perspectives; firstly, your own and other people like you; secondly, children of primary school age; and finally, the government perspective as embodied in the form of the Science in the National Curriculum for England and Wales (DFE/WO, 1995). Enquiry Task
Look back on your own science experience at both primary and secondary schools. Consider what you did during science lessons, what you learnt, and how science was taught to you.
Make a list of the main ideas or key points which come back to you. What images does school science conjure up in your mind?
Now look back over your out-of-school experiences. Consider how science has impacted upon your life.
What ideas about science, and of scientists and their work come through now? In particular, what ideas are portrayed by the popular media?
In what ways are the ideas about science which you got through work in school in line with those acquired through out-of-school experiences? In what ways are they different?
How are your views about science similar to those of other people like yourself? If you are a student teacher, how similar are your views to those of students reported by Coates and Russell (1995) and by Wright (1990)?
How might your science experiences impact upon your work as a teacher?
