The effectiveness of introducing “The Nature of Science” strand into the New Zealand curriculum with regard to increasing student engagement in science

Abstract

How effective is the Nature of Science strand in the NZ science curriculum in terms of engaging Year nine students in a New Zealand high school science programme? This thesis investigated the link between teaching with a Nature of Science (NOS) approach and the effect this had on student engagement. The mixed methods case study was focussed on Year 9 students at a large coeducational New Zealand High School. The results indicated that students did show behavioural, emotional and cognitive engagement when NOS teaching strategies were used. However, considerable support was needed for teachers to include NOS in their lessons.