Innovation in Science Education

Innovation in Science Education
Case of the “Small Science” Curriculum
TWAS Regional Prize, 2011 for the development of scientific educational material
November 16, 2012, JNCASR, Bangalore Modified: April 4, 2013, HBCSE, Mumbai
Jayashree Ramadas
Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education Tata Institute of Fundamental Research

Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education
HBCSE's goal is to bring about a positive change in science and maths education from primary school to undergraduate level in the country; to influence students, teachers and policy, and to build expertise, resources and opinion that are conducive to good education at all levels. HBCSE's work is premised on a close interaction between research, development of materials, and sustained outreach programs with teachers and students.
HMB Minutes, March 21, 2012
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Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education
Our Aim
• To improve the quality of science and mathematics education in the country from primary school up to undergraduate level

Research and Innovation

Development of Materials and Methods

Outreach & Advocacy
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A synergy

Specifically we aim to:

• Generate new ideas • Translate them to
useable forms
• Demonstrate or implement the ideas on a small or large scale

Research and Innovation
Development of materials and methods
Outreach and Advocacy

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Knowledge-base for Innovation
1. Research in Science Education
- Cognitive studies - Socio-cultural studies
2. Practice of Science / Science Education
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Research areas at HBCSE

Students' conceptions
Mathematical understanding Concept mapping
Concept Inventories Model-based reasoning
Visuo-spatial and embodied modes of reasoning

Design and technology
Out-of-school learning Learner-centred practices, collaboration, diversity
Socio-scientific, ethical, moral issues
Affective outcomes, student engagement
Testing and assessment
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Knowledge-base for Innovation
2. Practice of Science Education
- Learning, teaching, interviewing - Observations of schools and lessons - rural,
urban, formal and non-formal ~ 200 hours
- Teacher education - Classroom trials
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Process of curriculum development
Teacher - Trials Artist - Designs
Researcher - Writes
http://www.hbcse.tifr.res.in/smallscience
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• Why do we need innovation in science education?
• What kinds of innovation in education might produce students who innovate?
• How does an innovation permeate the school system?
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State of school science education
“(Our) teaching methods are mercilessly stultifying, and it is a miracle that children survive them without entirely losing their creative abilities and independence of mind.”
- Public Report on Basic Education (PROBE) in India (1999)

Rural Students • Rich experiences • Lack systematisation and clear
expression
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Urban Students
• Bookish learning • Ignore natural surroundings