This book proposes a new way to conceive of scientific literacy, as it has emerged from two research agendas that the authors have been pursuing independently but which have converged conceptually. This book presents a new and entirely different perspective than previous books on scientific literacy in that it valorizes the capacities of human beings to participate in worldly affairs and to change their life contexts. The book is important because it portrays a positive perspective, one that embodies the capacity of all human beings (independently of knowing that scientists think that protons...

How might science education reflect the values of a socially just and democratic society? Using a combination of in-depth case studies and rigorous theory, this volume offers a series of teaching stories that describe inner city youth's practices of science.

Math and science hold powerful places in contemporary society. However, effective math and science education is not equally available to all students, with some of the poorest students. This title demonstrates that educational inequality is augmented by a consistent failure to integrate student history, and social needs into the core curriculum.