Where do we go from here?

Science literacy is a complex topic. In order to progress, we must stay informed while simultaneously acknowledging that additional research is required.

Science is constantly changing and evolving- there's no denying it. As new research is conducted, new studies are published, and the scientific world advances, we must advance with it. Individuals must remain involved in scientific developments, especially as our society is evolving to depend on science in technology, health, and lifestyle- now more than ever.

While we have examined the topic of science literacy in multiple regards, we've just reached the surface. There's a plethora of information out there still available, and there's a plethora of information that has yet to be considered and understood. Researchers at the National Academy of Science have discussed four particular areas of potential research, honing in on topics that need to be expanded upon. These include:

1. The relationship between science knowledge and attitudes towards science

2. The utility of science literacy

3. The relationship of science literacy to other literacy skills

4. The role of science literacy for citizens as decision makes

(National, A.O.S.E.A et. al, 2016)

Briefly, we have touched on each of these points. However, more research and data is needed to understand how we progress and improve based on existing knowledge. And while the above are all valid suggestions, further areas of research are not limited to these topics. Lucky for us, there are people out there who do value insight into science literacy, and you may now be one of them. Stay informed and up to date with the latest research and educate others when you can. Science matters. To me, to you, to our society, and to our entire world.

For more information

(Mis)informed about what? What it means to be a science-literate citizen in a digital world

Emily L. Howell and Dominique Brossard share how other forms of literacy in the technological age impact science literacy.

Read the Paper

Science Literacy: Concepts, Contexts, and Consequences

A source used heavily throughout our discussion, this book is a wonderful resource covering all aspects of science literacy.

Read the Book

Science Literacy and Health Literacy: Rationales, Definitions, and Measurement

This source comprehensively covers similar concepts as this website, providing additional information on health literacy.

Read the Paper

Using Science to Bolster Literacy Skills in Elementary Education

An in- depth discussion of the ways early education techniques may impact science as it relates to other forms of literacy.

Read the Paper

Resources for Improving Science Literacy

1. Science Concepts from Science Learning Hub

A comprehensive page with a range of scientific subjects. Provides videos, interactive, articles, and more that explain various subjects within each subject.

2. Library + Glossary from Vision Learning

A library full of various learning modules supplemented by a glossary of commonly used and discussed scientific language.

3. TEDx Talks with Andrew Zwicker

"Scientific literacy is necessary"

4. TEDX Talks with Frederic Bertley

"Life's Secret- Be Science Literate"

References

Anderson, M. (2015, September 15). The race gap in science knowledge. Pew Research Center. Retrieved November 4, 2021, from https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2015/09/15/the-race-gap-in-science-knowledge/.

Bureau, U. S. C. (2021, October 8). Women are nearly half of U.S. workforce but only 27% of STEM workers. Census.gov. Retrieved November 12, 2021, from https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2021/01/women-making-gains-in-stem-occupations-but-still-underrepresented.html.

DeBoer, G.E. (2000), Scientific literacy: Another look at its historical and contemporary meanings and its relationship to science education reform. J. Res. Sci. Teach., 37: 582-601. https://doi.org/10.1002/1098-2736(200008)37:6<582::AID-TEA5>3.0.CO;2-L

European Commission. (1995). White Paper on Education and Training. Brussels, Belgium:

European Commission.

Funk, C., & Goo, S. K. (2020, May 30). A Look at What the Public Knows and Does Not Know About Science. Pew Research Center: Science & Society. Retrieved October 16, 2021, from https://www.pewresearch.org/science/2015/09/10/what-the-public-knows-and-does-not-know-about-science/.

Funk, C., Kennedy, B., & Tyson, A. (2020, August 28). Black Americans have less confidence in scientists to act in the public interest. Pew Research Center. Retrieved November 22, 2021, from https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/08/28/black-americans-have-less-confidence-in-scientists-to-act-in-the-public-interest/.

Hitlin, P., & Olmstead, K. (2018, March 21). The science people see on social media. Pew Research Center Science & Society. Retrieved November 17, 2021, from https://www.pewresearch.org/science/2018/03/21/the-science-people-see-on-social-media/.

Michigan State University. (2007, February 27). Scientific Literacy: How Do Americans Stack Up?. ScienceDaily. Retrieved October 14, 2021 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/02/070218134322.htm

National, A. O. S. E. A., Division, O. B. A. S. S., Board, O. S. E., & Committee, O. S. L. A. P. (2016). Science literacy : Concepts, contexts, and consequences. National Academies Press.

Pew Research Center. (2016, October 4). Americans' views on climate change and climate scientists. Pew Research Center Science & Society. Retrieved December 1, 2021, from https://www.pewresearch.org/science/2016/10/04/public-views-on-climate-change-and-climate-scientists/.

Zucker, A. (2021). Teaching Scientific Literacy. The Science Teacher, 88(4). Retrieved November 9, 2021, from https://www.nsta.org.