Abstract
Mueller and Zeidler discuss socioscientific issues (SSI) as they relate to students’ everyday lives in the context of environmental, political, social, and ethical issues. In this chapter, we will provide instructional methods and practical applications related to applying SSI within the classroom through action-based science projects. Although any subject can give rise to an action-based project, science is a rich field in which social activism can sprout. Global warming, medical and surgical needs, environmental stewardship, energy awareness, recycling, the aftermath of natural disasters, and, yes, concern for threatened and endangered organisms are just a few connections between science and community action projects. Classroom lessons can be taught and soon forgotten, but the passion, commitment, and emotional expense of an action project ensures its cognitive value and longevity, as well as the preparation of civic-minded individuals who gain problem-solving and decision-making skills for the future.
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Ponder, J., Cox-Peterson, A. (2010). Action-Based Science Instruction: Service-Learning, Stewardship, and Civic Involvement. In: Tippins, D., Mueller, M., van Eijck, M., Adams, J. (eds) Cultural Studies and Environmentalism. Cultural Studies of Science Education, vol 3. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-3929-3_10
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