In this course, participants will learn about critical theory and examine issues in science education with a critical lens. They will learn about what it means to teach science with critical praxis and be a reflexive science practitioner. They will acquire the vocabulary used in critical science education research. Specifically, multiculturalism and gender issues in science education will be discussed and pedagogies that enhance student participation in science. Critical methodologies and validity issues in critical research will also be discussed. During this course, they will discuss taken-for-granted assumptions about schooling, curriculum, teaching, and learning. Then, they will apply the theories learned to design culturally relevant science activities.

• Explain the significance of critical theory and apply these lenses to science education


• Explain concepts such as power relationships, positionality, identity, critical praxis and reflexivity and implications for teachers and teaching in Singapore


• Appreciate gender issues and feminist pedagogies and their significance in promoting greater social equality and respect for diversity


• Understand critical methodologies such as critical ethnography and validity issues in critical research

• Introduction to Critical Theory and Critical Studies Concepts in critical theory


• Critical studies in science education


• Critical pedagogies


• Multiculturalism in science education


• Gender issues in science education & Feminist pedagogies


• Critical methodologies


• Validity issues in critical research

• A good Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university


• A teaching qualification such as the Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the National Institute of Education, Singapore or at least ONE year of relevant working experience in education.


• Field Experience in science education and took science course at undergraduate level