Science, technology, society, and environment (STSE) and pre-service physics teacher education: Lessons for physics and education faculty

Abstract

The science, technology, society, and environment (STSE) framework is well documented in educational research, policy, and science curricula development; fewer strides have been made in connecting this conceptual frame-work of science teaching into undergraduate physics courses via physics education research. Further, science teacher training programs must ensure pre-service teachers understand STSE so that they can teach in accordance with provincially mandated curriculums. This research points to possible ways that education and physics departments can work together to bridge student learning as well as explore ways that STSE can enrich the various physics courses we teach at the secondary and post-secondary levels.