Download Chapter 4: Conceptual Science Teaching

Prologue
Capacity building and human resource development are one of the crucial angles in the rectangular
strategy of the Royal Government of Cambodia. Qualitative science education is an important factor
in creating a well-educated workforce. Not only is there a strong need for people with degrees in
scientific domains, but science education also contributes to developing students into well-informed,
critically and creatively thinking citizens.
In cooperation with development partners and international organizations, the Ministry of Education,
Youth and Sport (MoEYS) has developed educational materials to fulfil the needs of teaching and
learning. The process of material development and capacity building consisted of joint efforts of the
technical expertise of both the MoEYS and VVOB educational experts. This enabled us to design
materials that focus on basic knowledge and teaching methodology for science subjects.
This manual focuses on the theory and practices of science education and the promotion of problem
solving skills, reasoning skills, reading comprehension, creativity and deeper understanding of
science. The manual also offers solutions to make science lessons more connected to studentsʼ daily
lives.
MoEYS strongly hopes that all teacher trainers will use this manual to teach science in the teacher
training centres, and thus contribute to improving the quality of science education in Cambodia.
On behalf of MoEYS, I would like to express sincere thanks to the team and educational advisors of
the Flemish Association for Cooperation Development and Technical Assistance (VVOB) for their
energy, motivation and intellectual spirit to develop these useful manuals.
Phnom Penh, March 15, 2012
Minister of Education, Youth and Sport
H.E Im Sethy
(Signature and seal)
Student Centred Approaches for Science Education – Part 2
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