Innovations in Science and Technology Education

The sixth volume of Innovations in Science and Technology Education is the latest volume in a series initiated by UNESCO in 1984. This publication can be regarded as one of many contributions to the realization of the goals of the so-called Project 2000+, which is designated as a collaborative venture involving a group of major intergovernmental organizations and agencies, together with non-governmental organizations having special concerns and responsibilities in the field of science and technology education and research. The general theme of this volume is scientific and technological literacy (STL) as a current phenomenon/movement aimed at broadening the scope of science and technology education (formal, informal and non-formal) to make science and technology available to the whole population. The task is very difficult but from the viewpoint of worldwide needs very desirable. Complex problems related to STL are subjected to thorough discussion within 11 comprehensive essays written by authors from various cultural and geographical areas. The representative and successful selection of the essays was performed by Edgar W Jenkins, editor of the volume. The publication is divided into three parts. The introductory chapter offers an overview of the rationale, meanings and measures associated with STL and the second section contains a range of theoretical perspectives. The two parts provide a conceptual framework for the country-specific STL studies which constitute the third and concluding chapter. The book is primarily intended for science educators in universities and colleges, especially those involved with teacher training and curriculum planning, Ministry of Education officials and practising science and technology teachers. Also non-specialists may find interesting sections in this volume, especially in its third chapter which contains recent data from the educational practices of various countries. Owing to the special terms and the sociological and philosophical tone of many passages the book will not be beneficial to younger students.