John L. Rudolph

John L. Rudolph, historian of science education and Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professor, reflects on the purposes behind teaching science. He traces historical reasons like utility and national goals. He critiques fact-focused instruction and explores how people actually use scientific knowledge. He argues for teaching how science knows things and for preparing nontechnical citizens to engage with scientific issues.

John L. Rudolph, Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professor and former high-school science teacher, explores why we teach science. He traces historical purposes like economic growth and national security. He questions content-heavy instruction and urges teaching how science produces knowledge. He discusses civic uses of science, trust in scientific practices, and rethinking scientific literacy.