Primary science: The challenge of the 1990s

Abstract

The last decade has seen the establishment of science as a core subject in the curriculum of primary schools in England and Wales. The focus of research and development has tended to be on the needs of the children and the development of a curriculum which will meet those needs. But what of the teachers themselves? Are they ready to meet the demands generated by these rapid changes? This special issue of Evaluation and Research in Education considers this problem, bringing together some research and experiences of science educators from the United Kingdom and abroad, not only highlighting the problems but also suggesting possible ways forward.