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M.T. Halbouty Building,
Room 309 herbert@geo.tamu.edu Nature of Science Science has been portrayed as a collection of data, theories or knowledge domains.
Rene Descartes (1596-1650) Science is better described as a method of studying nature that discovers reliable, empirical knowledge about nature. There are other methods of discovering and learning knowledge about nature, but they are not science. Teaching evolution through a discussion on the nature of science may be a very productive pedagogical strategy to meet learning goals concerning both evolution and science literacy.
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Teaching Evolution and the Nature of Science With the 80th anniversary of the Scopes Trial in the summer of 2005, the debate on teaching evolution in schools has seemed to reach new heights, especially in places like Kansas. Opponents to current science education standards semm to be focusing the debate on the relationship between evolution and intelligent design, often suggesting to teach the controversy. Of course, not all discourse is somber. Scientific America released an editorial (SA Perspective) April 1, 2005 on the debate that is very funny. Unfortuantely, science teachers can be caught in the controversy. Crafting an effective pedagogical strategy requires teachers to develop their own positions on major philosophical and social questions, including the nature of science, the relationship between science and religon (more) and what should be broached in the classroom (or even if science itself is a secular religon), and the separation of church and state. Most major scientific associations have released position statements, but these are limited in strategies.
Below are some recent expositions on this debate that have guided my own thinking. I make these available not to try and convince you of my point of view but as a resource to help you on your own journey. |
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Evolution and Intelligent Design
Reminisces of an Eminent Evolutionist An excellent report on Intelligent Design that presents essays from experts on both sides of the debate. From Natural History. Collection of evolution (1002 articles!) and paleontology (649 articles!) articles from Science (US). Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, of the Catholic Church published a NY Times Op Ed Piece on the Church's position on evolution. Full text. This generated concerns and controversy.
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Teaching Evolution Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Science: National Academy Press Teaching Resources for Evolution and the Nature of Science: Indiana University Understanding Evolution. For teachers at all grade and experience levels teach evolution. Created by the University of California Museum of Paleontology. Teaching Evolution: Online Professional Development Course for Teachers from PBS Resources for Defending Evolution
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