Abstract

This paper is the seventh in a series of discussion papers prepared for a study of Canadian science education undertaken by the Science Council of Canada. The study, which began in the spring of 1980, had three aims: to establish a documented basis for describing the present purposes and general characteristicsof science teaching in Canadian schools; to conduct a historical analysis of science education in Canada; and to stimulate active deliberation concerning future options for science education. Inpursuing the third aim, the Science Council has solicited a variety of opinions on science education. These viewpoints, expressed in the form of discussion papers and disseminated as widely as possible, are intended to prompt science educators and others to review current policies and practices.