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Practical reasoning and science education: Implications for theory and practice

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Abstract

Practical reasoning is a fundamental competence required for everyday decision-making as well as for the production of scientific knowledge. However, very little attention is given to developing this competence in school science classrooms or in educational research programs. In this paper we explain the tradition of practical reasoning and its relevance to science and science education. We then suggest ways in which practical reasoning may be developed in students such that they are enabled to better understand how scientific knowledge is produced and how they may be better able to contribute to improving scientific practices.

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Brickhouse, N.W., Stanley, W.B. & Whitson, J.A. Practical reasoning and science education: Implications for theory and practice. Sci Educ 2, 363–375 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00488172

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