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Jak zrozumienie natury nauki wspiera uczenie się przez całe życie
How Understanding the Nature of Science Supports Lifelong Learning

Author(s): Aneta Krzewińska, Małgorzata Dzimińska, Izabela Warwas
Subject(s): Social Sciences, Education
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Łódzkiego
Keywords: nature of science; scientific literacy; science communication; public consultations; lifelong learning

Summary/Abstract: This study examines Polish citizens’ understanding of the Nature of Science (NoS) (McComas 2020) through public consultations on science communication in four areas: climate change, GMOs, vaccinations, and alternative medicine. Qualitative analysis of group discussions revealed that while all NoS elements were addressed, tools, processes, and products of science were most frequently referenced, with human elements and limitations mentioned less often. NoS principles were most evident among participants with higher education. The authors suggest using these insights as a litmus test for Polish citizens’ scientific literacy and advocate for professional science communication that goes beyond reporting findings to include explanations of scientific processes. This approach, they argue, can effectively support citizens’ lifelong learning.

  • Issue Year: 2/2025
  • Issue No: 21
  • Page Range: 71-87
  • Page Count: 17
  • Language: English
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