The Need For A Paradigm Shift In Science Education For Post Soviet Societies

The Need for a Paradigm Shift in Science Education for Post-Soviet Societies

This book explores the evidence for paradigm shifts in the context of science education. The articles draw attention to areas where there is a perceived need for a paradigm shift in post-Soviet countries if science education is to meet the goal of enhancing scientific literacy. Estonia, as an example of a faster developing country from those in the post-Soviet block, recognised the need to change its System when the economy allowed. Its first focus was in the area of technology. It was seen as vital to generate interest towards science for students studying in compulsory education. Inevitably scientific thinking plays an important role in the development of a society, and where post-Soviet countries are part of the European Union they also will need to see an important role of school science in preparing adults for a knowledge-based society. The paradigm shifts are thus seen in this light.

Science Education

"This book comprises a wide range of scholarly essays introducing readers to key topics and issues in science education. Science education has become a well established field in its own right, with a vast literature, and many active areas of scholarship. Science Education: An International Course Companion offers an entry point for students seeking a sound but introductory understanding of the key perspectives and areas of thinking in science education. Each account is self-contained and offers a scholarly and research-informed introduction to a particular topic, theme, or perspective, with both citations to key literature and recommendations for more advanced reading. Science Education: An International Course Companion allows readers (such as those preparing for school science teaching, or seeking more advanced specialist qualifications) to obtain a broad familiarity with key issues across the field as well as guiding wider reading about particular topics of interest. The book therefore acts as a reader to support learning across courses in science education internationally. The broad coverage of topics is such that that the book will support students following a diverse range of courses and qualifications. The comprehensive nature of the book will allow course leaders and departments to nominate the book as the key reader to support students – their core ‘course companion’ in science education."

Conference Proceeding. New Perspectives in Scienze Education