Science is needed in the modern world to enable us to take informed decisions. I bet that many people do not know what DNA is, although gene editing and gene therapy are around the corner.

Many do not know the difference between bacteria and viruses. I find people using the term ‘radiation’ without actually knowing what it means. For example, radiation of cell phones is the not the same as nuclear radiation. Carbon dioxide and methane are alien subjects to many. We need to know the role of hormones and enzymes. 

Electricity in our lives, and how it is produced, would give one the tool to decide better. Looking upwards at the night sky would be more rewarding. I think that science education ie needed for everyone during the obligatory age for schooling, ie until the age of 16.

Science should be taught by people who are knowledgeable about the subject. I am against theme teaching, because no one benefits from mixing up concepts. What do muscles have to do with Newton’s Laws of Motion, for example? It is better that these two areas are dealt with separately.

In order to give ample time to these subjects, which prepare us for life-long learning, and to give space to subjects that make us responsible citizens of Malta – such as exploring our history, geography, natural habitats and cultural heritage – I propose that specialisation in certain areas be left for after the age of 16. I mean that we should offer a core curriculum, which can be grasped by the average pupil, up to the age of 16 and that choosing subjects such as Chemistry and Biology, and Accounts and Economics, and certain foreign languages should be left for after secondary schooling. 

My feeling is that, regardless of the many reforms that have taken place, we are still teaching for examinations and not educating holistically.

 

Joe Portelli

Nadur