Problem-Based Learning And Nature Of Science: A Study With Science Teachers

Problem-Based Learning, a methodology that builds on problems to develop students' new knowledge, can also be useful in helping students to learn Nature of Science. Prospective science teachers' conceptions regarding Nature of Science and its teaching through Problem-Based Learning were analyzed by applying a semi-structured interview. Nine respondents recognized that this methodology promote research activities and contribute to the learning of some aspects of scientific inquiry. Moreover, they specifically considered that Problem-Based Learning may foster the understanding of the tentative nature of scientific knowledge and of the role of creativity implicit in scientific endeavor. Authors consider that more attention should be given to the contemporary Nature of Science views and to its consistent teaching through this methodology. (C) 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.