Publication Date

1993

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Senese, Guy B.

Degree Name

M.S. Ed. (Master of Education)

Legacy Department

Department of Leadership and Educational Policy Studies

LCSH

Physics--Study and teaching (Secondary); Physics--Philosophy; Interdisciplinary approach in education

Abstract

This thesis outlines the basic framework of one method of high-school physics teaching that integrates the thinking, feeling, and willing characteristics of the physics student in an attempt to encourage active participation in a technologically advanced democratic society and develop lifelong learning attitudes. The questions explored in this study are: (1) What are some of the challenges that schools and educators face in a technologically advanced democratic society? (2) In what ways can a liberal humanistic philosophy of high-school physics education help prepare students for intelligent participation in society? and (3) What are some of the outcomes of a liberal interdisciplinary humanistic philosophy of physics teaching that has been implemented in a highschool classroom? In addition, it includes a case study of an interdisciplinary connection between the subject matter of physics, the processes of philosophy, and the use of poetic expression to help students gain insight into the ways the science, philosophy, spirituality, and poetry alter and shape the way they think, feel, and behave. Among the conclusions reached in this study are: (1) Schools and educators face a current science crisis in our nation and the challenge is put to teachers to implement humanistic and interdisciplinary methods that help students gain the necessary skills to solve personal problems and resolve societal issues; (2) A liberal humanistic philosophy of high-school physics education focuses upon the needs of students as they come to make decisions, define their world, and operate through their mind, heart, and soul; and (3) Implementing an interdisciplinary philosophy of physics education brings educators the opportunity for personal and professional growth as well as the greater rewards of a strengthened society that comes through informed individuals concerned about the science and technology that affects their lives.

Comments

Includes bibliographical references (pages [102]-[107])

Extent

vi, [107] pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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