Activity Theory In Formal And Informal Science Education

Activity Theory in Formal and Informal Science Education

The purpose of this book is to establish a broader context for rethinking science learning and teaching by using cultural historical activity theoretic approach. Activity theory already steps in its third generation and only a few works have been done on its applications to science education, especially in Europe. The context takes into account more recent developments in activity theory applications in US, Canada, Australia and Europe. The chapters articulate new ways of thinking about learning and teaching science i.e., new theoretical perspectives and some case studies of teaching important scientific topics in/for compulsory education. The ultimate purpose of each chapter and the collective book as a whole is to prepare the ground upon which a new pedagogy in science education can be emerged to provide more encompassing theoretical frameworks that allow us to capture the complexity of science learning and teaching as it occurs in and out-of schools. The book captures the dialogic and interactive nature of the transferring the activity theory to both formal and informal science education. It also contributes to the development of innovative curricula, school science textbooks, educational programs and ICT’s materials. As a whole, the book moves theorizing and practicing of science education into new face and uncharted terrain. It is recommended to new scholars and researchers as well as teachers/researchers.

Activity Theory in Formal and Informal Science Education

Sociocultural Approaches to STEM Education

This book is a contribution to the sociocultural approaches to Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education. It offers a new interpreting theoretical framework coming from the Cultural Historical Psychology. The authors highlight some serious elements of the sociocultural context that mediates learning on STEM or with STEM adds. The book brings together the work of researchers interested in developmental psychology and childhood, with a special focus on using Activity theory and Cultural-historical research approach to unite these two opposing approaches to the study of children. The authors reconsider our relationship and experiencing with technology. It moves the attention from the pure instrumental aspect of technology to a deep human and societal approach. Moreover, the book focuses on the issue of teachers' continuing education in both formal and informal settings is being seen under a sequential system of expansive cycles and the key role of contradictions in transformative educational settings. Overall, this book encourages the academic society to open dialogue with other societies and enhance interdisciplinary research in times of crisis.