New Books in Education John L. Rudolph, "Why We Teach Science (and Why We Should)" (Oxford UP, 2023)
Jan 31, 2026
John L. Rudolph, Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professor and former high‑school science teacher, talks about why we teach science and what it should aim for. He explores historical reasons for science in schools, limits of content-focused teaching, challenges of teaching scientific reasoning, and proposals to teach how scientific knowledge is created and trusted.
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From High School Teacher To Scholar
- John Rudolph recounts starting as a high school science teacher before moving into history of science and curriculum studies.
- His classroom experience shaped the book's focus on why we teach science and how teachers rarely question the purpose of science education.
Science’s Utility Has Shifted Over Time
- Science entered schools early as a practical 'information subject' valued for useful knowledge.
- Over time its utility arguments shifted among personal use, national security, and economic growth.
Content Alone Fails To Build Scientific Thinking
- Teaching facts and formulas doesn't reliably transfer to everyday problem solving or retainment.
- Cognitive research shows scientific reasoning skills lack a natural developmental path and are hard to teach efficiently.
