Friday, January 23, 2009

Evolution in Texas

Kansas has a bad reputation when it comes to science education. At one point, Popular Science magazine even listed "Kansas Biology Teacher" as the third worst job in science. The bad press comes from our state's ongoing political controversy as to how evolution should be treated in the state science standards.

But it should be pointed out that we're not the only state that's having this discussion. In fact, Texas is currently discussing proposed revisions to their science standards. At issue is whether the following language:

The student is expected to analyze, review, and critique scientific explanations, including hypotheses and theories, as to their strengths and weaknesses using scientific evidence and information.

Should be replaced with:

The student is expected to analyze and evaluate scientific explanations using empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and experimental and observational testing.

"Strengths and weaknesses" language is a tactic commonly used by opponents to evolution as a way to weaken the credibility of certain theories (like evolution) that are perceived to be in conflict with their religious beliefs.

As always, the National Center for Science Education has a great summary of these proceedings on their website.

Monday, January 19, 2009

This Land is Our Land

Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Enjoy.