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ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
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In a message dated 8/3/2005 10:24:32 AM Central Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:
> The most prominent debate is underway in Kansas, where the conservative
> state board of education is expected to require the teaching of doubts
> about evolution to public high school students. A challenge to the teaching
> of intelligent design is scheduled for trial in Dover, Pa., while a federal
> court in Georgia said textbook stickers questioning evolution were
> unconstitutional.
>
As a science teacher I have to wonder why we are all so afraid of discussing
this in our classrooms. I am forced to teach a great many subjects that I
don't think are particularly important to students. I wish I could cover fewer
topics in more depth.
Science teachers recognize that students come to class with preconceived
notions, including intelligent design. If we refuse to discuss it in our
classroom we give it martyr status. We need to present students with the nature of
science thoughout all our science lessons and then let them participate in
discussions that might include controversial topics. You can't force people, they
have to come to these concepts on their own. Like the protests against the
war in Iraq, and the occasional misuse of our Flag (like the art display where
the flag was laid on the ground for people to walk on), not everyone will agree
with my view. But this is the United States of America, where all views
should be welcome for discussion and critique.
Janine Prillaman
Science Teacher
Science Olympiad Team Coach
Former Science Museum Education
Coordinator
Present Science Museum Board
Member
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