T. Subahan Mohd Meerah

Science Education Research and Practice in Malaysia

Science education is often seen as the vehicle for Malaysia to become a developed country based on science and technology. As a result, Malaysia has made the policy of producing 60 % of its critical mass of educated people, both at school and university, in the science and technology discipline. However, we have yet to reach the target because of the decline of interest in science among students. Various strategies and policies have been formulated and adapted to arrest the situation. This chapter begins by looking at the historical and social contexts that have driven developments in science education in Malaysia. With this context, it brings forth the research that has been embarked on looking at the issues, problems and effectiveness of the practices in science classrooms. This chapter also looks critically at the usefulness of research in informing practice including the barriers hampering the bridging of the gap between research and practice. To conclude, possible and future trends of research in science education are recommended.