Scientific Knowledge as a Culture: The Pleasure of Understanding

The book provides a conceptual history of physics topics based on research in physics education and research-based articles. It introduces a framework that views scientific knowledge as a special type of culture-discipline, structured in a triadic pattern: nucleus-body-periphery. This approach encourages meaningful learning of science by incorporating history, philosophy of science, and artistic images into teaching physics. It helps students and teachers understand science better, addressing misconceptions reported in educational research.

Format: Hardback
Length: 477 pages
Publication date: 02 February 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realms of conceptual history, encompassing a wide range of physics topics. In its initial section, it presents a rich tapestry of units, each meticulously crafted based on extensive research in physics education and scholarly articles focused on various aspects of teaching science, particularly physics. The second part of the book unveils the framework employed, which views scientific knowledge as a unique cultural-disciplinary domain. Within this framework, scientific knowledge is organized into a hierarchical structure, consisting of three interconnected elements: the nucleus, the body, and the periphery. The nucleus encompasses fundamental principles, while the body encompasses their practical applications in a diverse array of laws, models, and experiments. The periphery, on the other hand, encompasses concepts that deviate from the core of the nucleus. This innovative structure not only introduces knowledge in its conceptual variations but also transforms disciplinary knowledge into cultural-disciplinary knowledge.

The approach draws upon the rich tapestry of history and philosophy of science (HPS), essential for meaningful learning of science. It is exemplified in various aspects related to teaching physics, such as integrating history into classroom discussions, recognizing the distinct nature of science, and incorporating artistic images into regular teaching practices. The ensuing conceptual debate surrounding the chosen topics serves as a clarion call for school students and teachers, fostering the construction of Cultural Content Knowledge (CCK). Often overlooked in teacher preparation and mainstream curricula, this knowledge helps in cultivating a genuine understanding of science, thereby rectifying misconceptions often reported in educational research.

In conclusion, this book offers a profound exploration of conceptual history, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding scientific knowledge within a cultural-disciplinary context. By leveraging the insights of HPS, it equips educators with the tools necessary to nurture students' understanding of science and rectify misconceptions, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

Weight: 916g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030802004
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021