Seeking Appropriate Chemical Education in Japan : Lessons from the Past

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  • 化学教育の将来像を求めて : 過去からの教訓
  • カガク キョウイク ノ ショウライゾウ オ モトメテ カコ カラ ノ キョウク

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Abstract

The objective of chemical education in the past was to nurture good successors in the field of chemical science and technology. However, another objective, to develop science literacy in the citizens, is added today. Following the movement of Modernization of Science Education, which was initiated in the United States in 1950's, working for improving chemical education in Japan, and discussing the science education problems worldwide, the author has become convinced that the unified system of education in Japan has to be reexamined, though the system has played an important role in enhancing the general level of appreciation of science in Japan as well as providing a number of good people who have engaged in science and technology. To this end, curricula which require thinking rather than memorizing facts are proposed. It may be necessary also to divide courses into two, one in which logical thinking is required and another which aims to nurture people who are supporters or sympathizers of science and technology. The latter course should include making decisions from available data. The importance of the idea, that chemistry is a discipline that enables people to handle dangerous materials safely, is pointed out by stressing the fact that there is nothing which is absolutely safe. Particular emphasis is placed upon curricula which suit individuals of various characters as well as training of teachers who can live with the new trend.

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