Science_Literacy

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The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine

Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education

Science Literacy Concepts, Contexts, and Consequences

Read or download for free: Report Report Brief	This report from the Board on Science Education considers how the definition of science literacy has expanded and shifted over time in order to accommodate changing ideas about science. Science knowledge is only one component of science literacy, which can also encompass understanding scientific practices, such as forming and testing hypotheses, and understanding science as a social process, such as the role of peer review. The report outlines that science literacy can be more than just an individual accomplishment and that communities and societies can meaningfully demonstrate science literacy in ways that go well beyond the aggregated science literacy of the people in them. The report presents a research agenda with questions about creating new measures of science literacy and expanding the information available to clarify: (1) the relationship between science knowledge and attitudes toward science; (2) how science literacy is used and measured in different contexts; (3) the relationship of science literacy to other literacy skills; and (4) the role of science literacy for citizens as decision-makers. Sponsor: National Institutes of Health Press Release	Related Resources Discussion Paper: Considerations for a New Definition of Health Literacy. National Academy of Medicine (April 2016). Improving Adult Literacy Instruction: Options for Practice and Research. A high level of literacy in both print and digital media is required for negotiating most aspects of 21st century life -- succeeding in a competitive job market, supporting a family, navigating health information, and participating in civic activities. This report recommends a program of research and innovation to gain a better understanding of adult literacy learners, improve instruction, and create the supports adults need for learning and achievement. Project Information This section includes information about the committee, the committee's meetings (including agendas and presentations), and the papers commissioned during the course of the project. ►View project information

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