Science for society
Helping students become responsible researchers
The Jekyll and Hyde nature of science, in that it can be equally effective as a force for good or evil, presents society with challenges. While the current practice of science is perceived by many as being ethically sound, concerns persist regarding its negative impacts, and some remain sceptical about the aims of modern science.
As such, it is crucial that educators provide students with opportunities to explore the evidence for themselves. A framework for this is provided by an EU initiative to embed the concept of responsible research and innovation (RRI) in teaching. Ron Blonder and colleagues at Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel, have explored the impact of a lesson on ‘The story of lead’ and accompanying professional development for teachers on the attitudes of teachers and pupils towards RRI.
David Read summarises and reviews the research.
Thanks for using Education in Chemistry. You can view one Education in Chemistry article per month as a visitor.
Register for Teach Chemistry for free, unlimited access
Registration is open to all teachers and technicians at secondary schools, colleges and teacher training institutions in the UK and Ireland.
Get all this, plus much more:
- unlimited access to resources, core practical videos and Education in Chemistry articles
- teacher well-being toolkit, personal development resources and online assessments
- applications for funding to support your lessons
Already a Teach Chemistry member? Sign in now.
Not eligible for Teach Chemistry? Sign up for a personal account instead, or you can also access all our resources with Royal Society of Chemistry membership.