Gianello (1988) argued that: "Science is speculative,
creative and absorbing!"
In contrast Bruner (1996) argued that for most pupils:
"Science has come to seem inhuman and uncaring and
offputting - despite first class efforts of science
teachers"
Which of these descriptions most closely matches the
experience of learners?
The learners in this study frequently felt they had
not been given autonomy or responsibility for their
own learning. This had a negative impact on their
feelings of agency, their achievements and their
future study choices.
The analysis explores the role of personal...