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Rationale

Science education contributes to developing scientifically and technologically literate citizens who will be able to make informed decisions about their lifestyle, their environment and the kind of society in which they wish to live. They will be able to see the connections between science and people, note the relevance of science and technology to past achievements and current and future development and be aware of the impact of science and technology on society, the individual and the environment.

Science education prepares students for continuing studies and entry into the workforce in a variety of capacities. The Australian and international economies increasingly rely on scientific and technological developments and on a workforce skilled in these areas. The skills developed through science education are useful in a wide range of careers in addition to those normally thought of as scientific.

Learning science and its methods of investigation encourages students to develop curiosity and a spirit of inquiry and helps them to be open-minded and to value objectivity. Students are encouraged to adopt critical perspectives, to recognise the limitations of science and to respect and share responsibility for the local and global environment.

Science education enables students to appreciate that many cultures have made significant contributions to science knowledge and understandings.

The concepts, skills and processes associated with the practice of science and which develop scientific and technological literacy provide the basis for science education.