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Current views of science educators in madrasahs about science
Citation
Muhammad Faizal Bin Othman, & Subramaniam, R. (2004). Current views of science educators in madrasahs about science. In L. C. Chew (Ed.), Innovation & enterprise: Education for the new economy: Proceedings for the ERAS Conference (pp. 701-712). Singapore: Educational Research Association.
Author
Muhammad Faizal Othman
•
Subramaniam, R. (Ramanathan)
Abstract
In Singapore, science teachers in Madrasahs work in an environment where Islamic
principles are pronounced. The curriculum offers both Islamic and secular studies. One
aspect of its secular studies is science. The content of the science syllabus is primarily
based on modem science. This research aims to document the current views of science
educators in the Madrasahs about science, its connections with epistemology, religion,
economy, environment, health, public policy, aesthetics and literacy. A total of 34
Madrasah science teachers, representing about 94% of the Madrasah science teachers
population in Singapore, responded to a survey instrument for the purpose of this
research. Results showed that science teachers in the Madrasahs are positive about
science. In fact they feel that science is important, and that scientific research should be
adequately funded by government. More than 90% of the respondents feel that a person
can be both religious and scientific, that science has made contributions to public
health, and that it has contributed to mankind's appreciation of beauty. However, most
(91%) disagreed that science is more important than religion.
Date Issued
November 2004
Description
This paper was published in the Proceedings of ERAS Conference held in Singapore from 24-26 November 2004