Getting to Grips with Science A Fresh Approach for the Curious

Science touches all of our lives, every day, and should be a constant source of wonder and fascination — not something confined to the classroom. This book is for anybody who feels curious about ideas in science but lacks a strong background in the subject. Getting to Grips with Science draws on the author's twelve years of experience in leading experimental discussion groups, where people from all walks of life come together to pose questions in the presence of a science teacher. Bursting with testimonials from real people about their everyday experiences of science, the book acts as a gentle introduction for anyone wishing to find out more about the natural world. Drawing on practical examples and discussions that range from hormones to tectonic plates, it helps the reader understand any difficulties they may have encountered with science learning in the past and points to fresh ways of approaching the subject in the future. Concentrating on the themes that non-scientists are genuinely curious about, the book illustrates how we can begin to explore scientific ideas, first through our initial understanding of the world around us and then with the help of a trained tutor who explains the underlying scientific concepts. For those wishing to make a start on exploring science afresh, the book offers practical information about the books, museums, websites, podcasts, courses and events available to support them. Wider reflection on the experience of adults engaging with science through these discussion groups offers food for thought on the nature of science education in general. Andrew Morris has been running science discussion groups in informal settings in central London since 2002. Originally a science teacher in sixth-form, further and adult education, he has also worked as a senior manager in colleges and national bodies concerned with educational research. Contents:An Alternative ApproachWhat Captures Our Interest?Past DifficultiesLooking at Science AfreshWhat Excites Our Curiosity?Underlying ThemesFollowing Up Your CuriosityTaking Things FurtherAbout Science ItselfReflections Readership: All readers who are interested in scientific ideas. Key Features:People who are interested in scientific ideas but find popular science books too technical and specialized will find this book a good readDraws heavily on actual discussions with people who are curious about scientific ideas but lack a background in scienceLinks science to the arts and humanities by introducing person-centric approaches more familiar in these areas — thus addresses the “two cultures” debateKeywords:Science for All;Adult Learning;Public EngagementReviews: "You can't emphasise too highly the value of the process of exploring; it helps to root the discussion in our real lives and helps us to remember, and makes it relevant." Linda Slack NHS Manager and Member of Discussion Group "It really covered all the difficulties and threw a lot of light for me on why science and I hit it off so badly. It makes me realise what a huge resistance I have had towards science since school, more than a resistance, a real antipathy. Above all I like the way it so quickly gets beyond Physics, Chem and Bio!" Charlotte Eatwell Textile Artist "As someone who struggled to engage in science at school it feels like it's right at my level — 'Past Difficulties' rang true for me in every way!" Daisy Minton Counsellor “The chapter 'Underlying themes', with its actual science content, will probably be of most use to classroom practitioners, and there are practical suggestions of fresh ways to take things further. The book is clearly written, without academic jargon, and individual chapters can stand alone.” School Science Review