Focusing on solutions specific to science and math education both for K-12 and college, this book explores how students learn in general and helps teachers develop successful techniques for the classroom
On Teaching Science is a short, practical guide to key principles and strategies that will help students learn in any subject at any level but with special focus on the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects. Though aimed primarily at current and future teachers, the ideas covered will be of interest to anyone involved in education, including parents, school administrators, policymakers, community leaders, and research scientists. The book describes how important it is to instill the notion that learning requires study and effort; presents big picture ideas about teaching; provides general suggestions for successful teaching; and includes pedagogical strategies for success in science teaching. With a combination of personal experience and research-based studies to discuss the current state of education in the United States, the author shows how it can be improved through both individual educators and systemic changes.
Jeffrey Bennett, winner of the 2013 American Institute of Physics Science Communication Award, is an astrophysicist and educator who proposed the idea for and helped develop the Voyage Scale Model Solar System--the first science-oriented exhibit approved for permanent installation on the National Mall in Washington, DC. He is the lead author of college textbooks in four subjects--astronomy, astrobiology, mathematics, and statistics--and has written critically acclaimed books for the general public including Beyond UFOs and On the Cosmic Horizon. He is also the author of children's books, including those in the Science Adventures with Max the Dog series and The Wizard Who Saved the World. He lives in Boulder, Colorado.
"Provides a masterful 'back to basics' review of true 'nuts and bolts' of learning and teaching science. Author Jeffrey Bennett skillfully blends a modern view of the nature of science with insights into student learning forming a 'How To' manual that would be of good use to any teacher of science, kindergarten through university level. Dr. Bennett takes on the American cultural rise of multitasking, inadequate study habits, and emphasis on unconnected knowledge tidbits. He builds a case for focused study and conceptual learning orchestrated by teachers who model enthusiasm, curiosity, creativity, and hard work. Science teachers at all levels of experience should read this book and rethink how they operate in the classroom and how they set expectations for students." --Dr. Alan McCormack, professor of science education, San Diego State University, and president, National Science Teachers Association (2010-2011)
"A wonderful book, full of useful lessons not just about teaching science, but about teaching and learning in general." --Dr. Scott Hildreth, professor of physics and astronomy, Chabot College
"Antoine de Saint-Exupery proclaimed 'If you want to build a ship, don't drum up people to collect wood and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.' On Teaching Science shows how to kindle in students that longing to learn about their universe and how to keep them engaged all the way along their journey to science." -- Alvin Drew, NASA Astronaut (STS-118, STS-133)