The nature of science conception: A review of literature

Abstract

The most important goal of all reform efforts in science education is to achieve a scientific literate citizenry. At the core of that goal, is the strive to enhance students’ understanding of the nature of science. The aim of this paper is to present a review of studies on students’ and science teachers’ conception of the nature of science. The analysis of such studies revealed that both students and science teachers do not possess appropriate understanding of the nature of science that is in line with contemporary science education standards. An accurate understanding of the nature of science is believed to help students identify the strengths and limitations of the scientific knowledge, develop accurate views of how science can and cannot answer some questions. Research suggests that teaching students about the nature of science can facilitate the learning of science subject content and increase student achievement. Studies related to students and science teachers’ conceptions of nature of science are hardly found to have been done in Namibia. This paper is part of a study that is currently being undertaken to assess students’ and science teachers’ conception of the nature of science in Namibia.