Teaching Science to Indigenous Australians

Paper Summary:

This paper looks at the cultural and religious beliefs of the indigenous Australians that make it difficult for them to understand the concept of Western science. The paper then attempts to identify the best methods for science teachers to teach science to the indigenous Australians, while simultaneously stressing that teachers should teach that which is relevant to the lives of the indigenous students and in keeping with their traditions and customs.

From the Paper:

"Sadly, relations between one people and another have not always been friendly. The situation is exacerbated further still, when the two peoples who come into contact with each other have very little in common, as in the case of a complexly organized, technologically advanced nations that suddenly finds itself face to face with a nation of hunters and gatherers. Such was the situation when the English established their first colony at Botany Bay. The United Kingdom was a country of millions of people, all under the rule of a single government. It possessed all the physical trappings of an advanced society. The British used and manufactured metal implements and weapons. They possessed a highly elaborate system of writing and record-keeping; had many different forms of communication and transportation; and made great buildings and cities out of wood, brick, and stone. They were also accustomed to exploring and investigating their world."

More papers on Teaching Science to Indigenous Australians:

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• Research Paper # 117004 : "Indigenous Australians and Assimilation"

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