Meaningful Experiences In Science Education: Engaging The Space Researcher In A Cultural Transformation To Greater Science Literacy

C. A. Morrow. (1993), JBIS, 46, pp.449-454

Refcode: 1993.46.449

Abstract:

Evidence of the intrinsic nature of space in modern culture is offered by how clearly human emotions are tied to the successes and failures of the space program. We are profoundly excited by humans walking on tl1e moon, thrilled to behold images of other worlds never before seen, devastated by the loss of a space shuttle and its crew, and disappointed and angered by the flaw in Hubble Space Telescope’s mirror. This visceral appeal of space events is a very powerful emotional connection to a very large and diverse collection of people, most of whom have little or no perspective about what it means to do science and engineering. And therein lies the potential of space science and exploration for a substantially enhanced positive impact on culture through education. Generally speaking, space achievements have enjoyed the attention of people but not their understanding. How can education seize this gift of attentiveness and use it to develop deeper understanding and greater appreciation of science and science methods?