Laboratory technicians in Australian secondary schools

A number of reports have argued that secondary science education needs to be more inquiry oriented and involve authentic and practical investigations to develop scientific literacy and better engage students in learning science. Inquiry-oriented approaches, such as those advocated In the new science...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Teaching science (Deakin West, A.C.T.) A.C.T.), 2009-09, Vol.55 (3), p.34-39
Main Author: Hackling, Mark W
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Australia
Curricula
Foreign Countries
Inquiry
Laboratories
Laboratory technicians
Paraprofessional school personnel
Practice
Qualifications
Questionnaires
School Personnel
Science Education
Science Laboratories
Sciences education
Scientific Literacy
Scientific personnel
Secondary education
Secondary School Science
Secondary Schools
Surveys
Teacher Role
Teaching Methods
Technical Support
Training
Training needs
Vocational education and training
Work environment
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Summary:A number of reports have argued that secondary science education needs to be more inquiry oriented and involve authentic and practical investigations to develop scientific literacy and better engage students in learning science. Inquiry-oriented approaches, such as those advocated In the new science national curriculum, require that teachers have access to good laboratory facilities and equipment and are supported by knowledgeable laboratory technicians. Without adequate and qualified technical support, the quality of the curriculum will be compromised. This paper reports on the status of laboratory technicians in Australian secondary schools and makes recommendations for improving the quality of training and support of technicians and the level of servicing of science programs. [Author abstract]
ISSN:1449-6313
1839-2946