Socioscientific Issues as Tools to Teach Argumentation and Nature of Science
摘要
Socioscientific issues (SSI) play an important role in science education because they combine scientific concepts with ethical, social, and technical considerations. These concerns, such as genetic engineering and climate change, provide real-world challenges that need critical thinking, reasoning, and evidence-based decision-making. Incorporating SSI into science curricula promotes scientific literacy by engaging students in meaningful conversation, increasing their knowledge of the nature of science (NOS), and developing critical skills such as ethical reasoning and reflective thinking. The research shows a strong link between SSI, NOS, and argumentation, suggesting that specific education in these areas improves students’ capacity to formulate arguments, counterarguments, and rebuttals. Studies show that SSI-based learning is helpful in improving students’ grasp of scientific content while preparing them for active citizenship in an ever-changing environment. The use of SSI in science education closes the gap between theoretical knowledge and its societal applications, allowing students to critically analyze and negotiate challenging scientific and ethical quandaries. As scientific education takes a more holistic approach, SSI emerges as a critical foundation for promoting informed decision-making and life-long learning.