The purpose of science education

Science is one of the eight learning areas specified in the New Zealand Curriculum. The curriculum provides ideas on why ākonga should study science as part of a broad general education, with specialisation in years 11–13.

In this video, teachers briefly share their personal ideas on the ‘why’ aspect of teaching science – its purpose and place within their classrooms.

Prompting questions/ngā pātai

What are your ideas about the purpose of science education in Aotearoa? 

• Is science about the facts we need to understand the world around us, or does it go beyond this? 

• Should the focus be on learning facts or instilling curiosity to want to discover and learn the facts? 

• Does the purpose for teaching science remain static over the years? Does it change from primary to secondary? From junior to senior secondary?

Transcript

Andrea Tritton

We really need a scientifically literate population. We need people to be able to ask the right questions and know where to go to be able to find reliable answers.

Lian Soh

It’s about making links between what they already know and the real-world application.

Carmen Kenton

I just really enjoy allowing them that curiosity. That seems like a privilege, but actually it should be a right.

Meredith Wilson

I love the flexibility and the creativity that you can just go ahead and do some cool things and build up your scientists.

Faye Booker

We have authentic learning, and the kids love it.

Acknowledgements

Andrea Tritton, Deputy Principal, Hobsonville Point Secondary School
Lian Soh, Science and Chemistry Teacher, Pāpāmoa College
Carmen Kenton, Science Teacher, Riccarton High School
Meredith Wilson, HOD Science, Ruapehu College
Faye Booker, HOD Science, Edgewater College
Students on coastal walkway, by Lian Soh. © Pāpāmoa College
Seiching model being shaken, by Carmen Kenton. © Riccarton High School
Students collecting stream data, by Meredith Wilson. © Ruapehu College