In my old school, it was always very difficult to teach evolution. I know that it is a scientific fact, but at times students could not reconcile evolution with their own beliefs. Has anyone else had students who simply would not accept learning about evolution or believed that you (as the teacher) were going against their beliefs? How did you handle it?
On other topics such as stem-cell research the students really enjoyed the discussion and arguing for one side. Overall, I think that discussion of these issues enhances student learning because it forces them to think critically about a subject. I also think students enjoying connecting the science to an actual topic which appears in media.
You can do philsophical chairs or socratic seminars when you approach issues within the classroom. Issues in Earth Science aren't as intense as evolution, such as Big Bang theory and global warming, but I have the students pick a side to the argument and then research it. They then group with the other students supporting the same side and we hold discussion. During the discussion students can change sides at any time if they choose. This way the students do hear both sides but from a research point of view, not a teacher's point of view!
ReplyDeleteWhen I was teaching 7th grade science, I had to teach evolution and I always started out with a preface that said that the students did not have to believe in any of the evidence that is put forth in front of them but they did have to learn it to be able to master their SOL. I would then tell them that they are entitled to believe the scientific reasoning or the religious reasoning. We would not judge which is which and I actually never would state my beliefs because I feel at the age they are susceptible to change thier beliefs based on what others believe so I always just presented the material, answered as much as I was allowed to in my school and everything went smoothly.
ReplyDeleteNow that I am teaching Earth Science the big question is the Big Bang Theory and we discuss how they believe everything began and I will have a few that will make comments about how bogus it sounds and how they would rather believe in a greater being started it all and I think as a teacher you just have to choose your words carefully and make sure that you do not discount the opinions or beliefs of your students.
I agree. I try to have a positive environment where discussions (sometimes heated) can take place. I want my students to think critically about issues. However I am always stumped with the students who use religion as the basis of their argument. It becomes a very tough situation. You don't want to discount their beliefs but you also want them to examine scientific facts.
ReplyDeleteI remind my students that science is about collecting and testing evidence and always steer the scientific discussion away from religious beliefs. In middle school it can be especially difficult because at this age I don't want the students to "challenge" their parents' beliefs. AT the same time, to be scientifically literate is to be able to examine evidence that is testable to formulate a hypothesis, understand a theory, etc.
ReplyDeleteI was raised in a catholic community in PA and we were not taught about evolution. As a matter of fact, those sections were removed--quite the dark ages I believe. Funny, today I still find it difficult to talk to my students about evolution and other theories that move too closely to my religious upbringing. Good thing I am teaching Tech Ed and can avoid these issues. I have a difficult enough time getting my students to convince their parents to recycle and use CFLs..."it's all a conspiracy of the government...." that is the response the parents are giving their students! Ugh...it all takes time
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