A CONCEPTUAL MATRIX FOR SCIENCE EDUCATION

A conceptual matrix for science education is presented. It contains nine matrix elements, metaphysics, epistemology, ontology, praxis in classroom, content, theories of learning, teachers teaching, students learning and students preconceptions. These elements are linked to each other and constitute a didactical web. The elements in the matrix are regarded from three aspects, philosophical, operational, and interactive. The elements in the matrix and the aspects are discussed from a point of view in which the sociocultural perspective challenges the scientific paradigm of learning. The resulting standpoint is that it is fruitful in science education to utilize the sociocultural perspective in interaction with a constructivistic way of creating knowledge in order to extend the scientific paradigm for teaching and learning in science.