The Role of Research on Science Teaching and Learning

Research on science teaching and learning plays an important role in improving science literacy, a goal called for in the National Science Education Standards (NRC 1996) and supported by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA 2003). NSTA promotes a research agenda that is focused on the goal of enhancing student learning through effective teaching practices and that effectively connects research and practice. NSTA encourages all participants in science education, including K-16 teachers of science and administrators, to recognize the importance of research and assume active roles in research practices. The process of research is the essence of the scientific enterprise and of scientific inquiry. Science education builds on the best of research in both worlds--science and education. By engaging in continual inquiry into teaching and learning, individuals can promote science literacy for students in the 21st century. NSTA makes several recommendations to promote effective research on science teaching and learning. These recommendations are presented in this paper.