Abstract
This chapter investigates how the social dimensions and social/cultural embeddedness of science are portrayed in middle and high school physics and biology textbooks across diverse societal and cultural contexts, specifically from the USA, Jordan, Oman, and Lebanon. Using a structured document analysis approach, sixteen textbooks- four from each country-were analyzed to assess the extent and manner in which these two aspects of the Nature of Science (NOS) are represented. Findings reveal that the social and cultural aspects of science are generally underrepresented, with these themes often presented through isolated examples rather than being integrated as central themes throughout the textbooks. The chapter underscores the need for a comprehensive inclusion of social and cultural dimensions in science education materials to more accurately reflect the Nature of Science, thus supporting informed and culturally competent scientific understanding in diverse educational contexts.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Cross-Cultural Comparisons of Science Education |
Pages | 207-253 |
Number of pages | 47 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9798369357453 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 25 2025 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2025, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved.
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Social Sciences