Colleagues,
Recently, I've posed questions about what happens when a student enters the adult education with incorrect background knowledge about a specific subject area. We've also spent a great deal of time discussing false news. So, what is the impact as it relates to our understanding and belief in Science.
From the National Geographic: "We live in an age when all manner of scientific knowledge—from the safety of fluoride and vaccines to the reality of climate change—faces organized and often furious opposition."
From The Atlantic:
- Genetically modified foods: 88 percent of scientists say they’re "generally safe" to eat; 37 percent of the public agrees.
- Vaccines: 86 percent of scientists believe they should be required in childhood, compared to 68 percent of the public.
- Climate change: 94 percent of scientists say it’s a “very serious" or "somewhat serious" problem; 65 percent of the public agrees. 87 percent of scientists blame humans; 50 percent of the public does too.
- Evolution: 98 percent of scientists say they believe humans evolved over time, compared to 65 percent of the public.
The New Yorker ran an article in 2009 and again in 2012 about Why We Don't Believe in Science.
How does this information about our nation's understanding and acceptance of science impact your instruction?
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Kathy Tracey
@kathy_Tracey