Reception and rejection of science knowledge: choice, style and home culture

Abstract

One reason why there is little public understanding of science concepts could be active personal rejection. There are many informal sources of scientific knowledge, but individual style and choice govern how and whether they are used. Other research shows that groups are interested in particular information, but that they reject science principles. Data from a study of students discussing issues from television show how they present themselves through their preferred knowledge sources. Finally I describe a home study of parents doing science investigations with primary-aged children. Interviews with the parents show that how they react to science and to education depends upon the home culture they have constructed. The parents reproduce this culture in the activities of their children, more or less strongly, and this affects their own acceptance or rejection of the scientific knowledge.