Introduction

Abstract

This is an introductory chapter which provides an overview of the entire book. It highlights the main themes in the book which are anchored on the four Parts of nature of science, science and national development, curriculum and pedagogical considerations, and development and future studies in science education. The need to achieve scientific literacy based on an understanding of the nature of science which in turn is predicated on argumentation is highlighted. So also is the need to adopt a cautious approach to some controversial issues such as evolution, creationism, and intelligent design in the light of the empirical and tentative nature of scientific knowledge. Other considerations are in the areas of national and regional science education programs, curriculum and pedagogy, assessment, social outcomes, learning outcomes, relevance of learning programs, context-based teaching, and socially responsible science education. The chapter makes a case for the education of girls and boys not only as a right but as an investment for the future in line with the views of the World Bank and UNESCO. It ends by echoing the promise that science education research bears in the light of the anticipated pivotal place of science education in a highly technologically advanced world five decades ahead.