Nature of Science and Classroom Practice: A Review of the Literature with Implications for Effective NOS Instruction

This chapter summarizes the extensive literature related to NOS instruction, emphasizes research-based NOS instructional decision-making, and discusses challenges related to teaching aspects of nature of science. We discuss four instructional settings particulalry well-suited for supporting NOS instruction including the use of history of science, inquiry, socioscientific issues, and argumentation. We then examine literature regarding NOS learner readiness and NOS learning progressions to assist instructors in gauging when certain NOS topics will be most appropriate in instruction. The final section compares various settings for preparing preservice and in-service teachers to accurately understand the NOS, NOS pedagogy, and the importance of NOS teaching and learning. We end with considerations of challenges that remain with respect to NOS in the science curriculum.