Teaching Science in a Difficult Time: Teaching for a Sustainable Society

Human curiosity has always driven us to ask big questions:

How was the Earth formed?
What causes natural calamities?
What are the celestial objects that shine in the sky?
How did we come into existence?
Science classrooms hold the potential to engage with such fundamental human questions, allowing us to better understand both nature and ourselves. Yet, for many, the experience of learning science in school has not always been inspiring or encouraging.

This webinar will explore ways to make science classrooms more engaging and meaningful. Together, we will reflect on questions such as:

How can we make science classrooms truly interesting?
What preparation does a science teacher or teacher educator need?
What factors shape the nature of teaching and learning in science?
Is knowledge of science content alone enough to teach effectively?
While these questions may appear simple, their answers are layered and complex. Join us as we unpack them and explore how science teaching can nurture curiosity and contribute to building a more sustainable society.

Speaker:
Saurav Shome is a faculty member in the MA Education programme at Azim Premji University, Bhopal. He holds an MSc in Astrophysics from Assam University and a PhD from TIFR, Mumbai, where his doctoral work focused on developing collaborative models of teacher professional development through project-based learning in Indian middle and high schools. His research and teaching interests include teacher education, project-based learning, science education, history and philosophy of science, assessment practices, and curriculum design.

Before joining the University, Saurav worked with the Azim Premji Foundation, contributing to textbook and curriculum development, teacher training in Uttarkashi, and community science education initiatives in Kolkata. His work combines conceptual inquiries, such as alternative conceptions in science and thematic teaching, with practical engagement in inclusive classroom practices, assessment cultures, and the use of group work to strengthen learning environments.