John Loughran

Scientific Literacy Under the Microscope: a Whole School Approach to Science Teaching and Learning John Loughran

Marc Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index.; Avail. in cloth. Publisher Marketing: Scientific literacy is generally valued and acknowledged among educators as a desirable student learning outcome. However, what scientific literacy really means in terms of classroom practice and student learning is debatable due to the inherent complexity of the term and varying expectations of what it means for learning outcomes. To date the teacher voice has been noticeably absent from this debate even though the very nature of teacher expertise lies at the heart of the processes which shape students' scientific literacy. The chapters that comprise this book tap into the expertise of a group of primary teachers from Our Lady of Good Counsel (OLGC), a primary school that chose to actively engage in teaching for scientific literacy. By analyzing the insights and thinking that emerged as they attempted to unravel some of the pedagogical complexities associated with constructing an understanding of scientific literacy in their own classrooms, these teachers demonstrate the professional knowledge and skill inherent in the expertise of teaching and learning science in a primary classroom. The chapters in this book illustrate the processes and structures that were created at OGLC to provide the conditions that allowed these teachers to explore and build on the range of ideas that informed their approach to teaching for scientific literacy. This book is a compelling example of how a whole school approach to scientific literacy can make a difference for students' learning of science and offer a concrete example of the development of professional knowledge and practice of teachers. Contributor Bio:  Smith, Kathy Kathy Smith's journey began as primary caregiver for her aunt and parents several years ago, it quickly became apparent that with the best intentions as a caregiver, she was maneuvering in an area which was unfamiliar to her and the stakes were high. Reaching out to anyone and everyone for information, opinions and support was essential for success. Always finding the right resource with the right experience and information at the right time didn't always happen in her required timeframe. As Kathy's journey evolved, her caregiver knowledge improved and her network grew; more and more friends and relatives entering the caregiver role would approach Kathy to discuss her experiences and ask for advice. While making care and housing decisions for my seniors at Hospitals, Rehabs Centers, Respite Care Facilities, Assisted Livings and Nursing Homes it became apparent that tools addressing these areas were needed to make other caregiver's journeys easier. With that, Kathy founded Seniors Resource Hub and this is one of the tools created. Additional tools include "Nursing Home/Skilled Nursing Facility Comparison Checklist," "Senior eHealth Records Repository" as well as the "Senior Downsizing and Moving Checklist and Tools."Contributor Bio:  Berry, Amanda Between walking her Jack Russell-beagle mix, petting her two cats and driving her two kids all over creation, Amanda Berry writes contemporary romance novels (thanks to a supportive husband). A Midwest girl stuck in the wetlands of South Carolina, she finds inspiration in her small-town upbringing. A list of her current releases and backlist can be found at amanda-berry.com.