Science Classroom for Promotion of Democratic Civic Literacy?: Exploratory Discussions Focused on Elementary School Teachers’ Views

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate elementary teachers` views on the democratic scientific inquiry and the methods for promotion of democratic citizenship in science classroom, and to conduct exploratory discussions about science classroom for promotion of democratic citizenship based on their views. Data were collected from 96 elementary teachers. AS results show, the elementary teachers in the study thought that the features of democratic scientific inquiry was `communication and cooperation`, `autonomy and fairness`, and `contribution to the benefit of mankind and society`. In addition, the participants regarded the `inquiry/activity focused on communication and cooperation` as the best method for promotion of democratic citizenship in science classrooms. Finally, several suggestions on the science education for promotion of democratic civic literacy and the democratic inquiry were given.