Science 3-13 The Past, the Present and Possible Futures

Which factors have been influential in developing science teaching and learning for the 3-13 age group in the last twenty years? How might these factors have an impact on the future direction of science teaching and learning for this age range into the twenty-first century? How can teachers cope with the changes? Science 3-13 explores some of the historical antecedents of the current position of science in the lives of younger children. It covers the various influences, from both within and outside the teaching profession, that have shaped the current science curriculum. Current practice is examined and, on this basis, speculations are made about the future position and direction of this important subject. The contributors each cover a particular aspect of science for the 3-13 age range but common themes emerge, such as the influence of government intentions, particularly through the development of the National Curriculum. The role of research groups and the impact of IT on the development of science in schools are also examined. The views of the teaching profession as to what should be taught and how science and science teaching should be viewed within society are shown to be important factors in the mix that contributes to change. This book forms part of a series of key texts which focus on a range of topics related to primary education and schooling. Each book in the Primary Directions Series will aim to review the past, analyse current issues, suggest coping strategies for practitioners and speculate on the future.Warwick, Paul is the author of 'Science 3-13 The Past, the Present and Possible Futures' with ISBN 9780415227872 and ISBN 0415227879.