Science Learning, Science Teaching

Now fully updated in its fourth edition, Science Learning, Science Teaching offers an accessible, practical guide to creative classroom teaching and a comprehensive introduction to contemporary issues in science education. Aiming to encourage and assist professionals with the process of reflection in the science classroom, the new edition re-examines the latest advances in the field and changes to curriculum, and explores use of mobile tech and coding, and its impact on ICT in science education.

With extra tasks integrated throughout the book and a brand new chapter, ‘Working Scientifically’, to help develop learners’ investigative skills, key topics include:

• The art and craft of science teaching
• The science curriculum and science in the curriculum
• Planning and managing learning
• Inclusive science education
• Safety in the science laboratory
• Language and numeracy in science teaching and learning
• Computers and computing in science education
• Citizenship and sustainability in science education

Including points for reflection and useful information about further reading and recommended websites, Science Learning, Science Teaching is an essential source of support, guidance and inspiration for all students, teachers, mentors and those involved in science education wishing to reflect upon, improve and enrich their practice.

About the authors

Gren Ireson, following eighteen years teaching physics, mathematics, electronics and computer science across three 11 to 18 comprehensive schools in Nottinghamshire, moved to Loughborough University in the September of 1997. Whilst at Loughborough Gren led the science teacher training and taught both physics and sports science to undergraduates. In the September of 2007 Gren moved to Nottingham Trent University to become Professor of Science Education. Gren teaches on a number of undergraduate modules in physics and electronics and supervises PhD students across the wider STEM education agenda, including engineering and computer education. Gren has been involved in a number of EU funded projects exploring both the STEM curriculum and developing STEM pedagogy. Gren’s current research focuses on learning and teaching in STEM and equality of access to STEM.

Jerry Wellington taught science in Tower Hamlets, London before moving to Sheffield University where he was a professor in the School of Education until 2016. He is the author of many journal articles and books on education and research methods. His continuing interests are in science education, research methodology, doctoral education and supervision.

Jon Scaife teaches and researches in the School of Education, University of Sheffield. His main interest is in constructivist ideas about learning. He has taught about constructivism in several continents and continues to work in this area in Singapore. Before Sheffield Jon taught in school in Leicestershire where he also worked as a radio presenter. Originally a student of maths and physics he still enjoys teaching physics in the university. Outside academia Jon is a performing musician and an unjustifiably optimist golfer.

Jerry Wellington is Professor of Education at the University of Sheffield, UK. Jerry’s research interests are in the nature of science, research methodology and the development of doctoral education.

Gren Ireson is Professor of Science Education at Nottingham Trent University, UK. Gren’s research interests are in the learning and teaching of science especially relativity, particle physics, quantum phenomena and superconductivity.