THE NATURE OF SCIENCE AS VIEWED BY NON-SCIENCE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

The purpose of this exploratory study was to determine views held on the nature of science by tertiary level students who are not studying science subjects as an academic area of study, who are not seen as outstanding students in an academic sense, but who may cover a range of age groups from 18 upwards. The research sets out to determine their views on the nature of science based on their learning at secondary school and influences that may come from society. Essays written by 58 students were analysed. Using a phenomenographical approach, categories describing undergraduate students views were found.