Science school and culture school: improving the efficiency of high school science teaching in a system of mass science education

Medical Hypotheses
Bruce G Charlton

Abstract

Educational expansion in western countries has been achieved mainly by adding years to full-time education; however, this process has probably reduced efficiency. Sooner or later, efficiency must improve, with a greater educational attainment per year. Future societies will probably wish more people to study science throughout high school (aged c. 11-19 years) and the first college degree. 'Science' may be defined as any abstract, systematic and research-based discipline: including mathematics, statistics and the natural sciences, economics, music theory, linguistics, and the conceptual or quantitative social sciences. Since formal teaching is usually necessary to learn science, science education should be regarded as the core function of high schools. One standard way to improve efficiency is the 'division of labour', with increased specialization of function. Modern schools are already specialized: teachers are specialized according to age-group taught, subject matter expertise, and administrative responsibilities. School students are stratified by age and academic aptitude. I propose a further institutional division of school function between science education, and cultural education (including education in arts, sports, eth...Continue Reading

References

Apr 19, 2003·QJM : Monthly Journal of the Association of Physicians·B G Charlton

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Citations

Dec 5, 2014·Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine·Miriam RuesselerFelix Walcher

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