Skip to main content

Table 1 Evolution of the secondary science education curriculum in Taiwan

From: Science education reform in confucian learning cultures: policymakers’ perspectives on policy and practice in Taiwan

 

Before 1970

1970–1990

1990–2000

After 2000

Policy Vision

Master scientific knowledge

 
 

Learn to apply scientific knowledge

 
 

Learn science process skills

 
 

Cognitive development and knowledge of science concepts

 
 

Learn about science and technology in the society

 
 

Learn about the scientific inquiry approach

Curriculum Goals

Cultivate citizens’ health

 

Prepare students for exams

 

Technical training for industry careers

 

Develop technology talent

 
 

Cultivate citizens’ scientific literacy

Teaching Activities and Strategies

Lecture-based teaching

 

Lab experiments

 
 

Application of science to industry

 

School-based curriculum

 

Teacher and school autonomy

 

Student-centered pedagogy

Evaluation and Assessment

Emphasis on final (summative) assessment and evaluation

 
 

Emphasis on formative assessment

 

Emphasis on evaluation of basic skills (reading, writing, numeracy skills, ability to apply scientific knowledge to everyday life)

  1. Adapted from Cheng (2005). Wo kuo ke xue jiao yu gai ge de hui gu zhan wan. Science Educaion Monthly, 284, 2–22