IBSE Final

162 NaTIoNal SCIENCE TEaChERS aSSoCIaTIoN

Epilogue Science Teachers as 21st-Century leaders

Note that this definition includes a majority of individuals within the science

education community but has particular relevance for science teachers.

the Responsibility and Leadership of Science teaching

This section describes two related ideas. The first idea is that science teachers

are ultimately responsible for what students learn in their classrooms, and the

second is that leadership in the reform of science education arises from the recog-

nition and acceptance of science teachers for their role in reform.

Science teachers have a tremendous responsibility. They must comprehend

the complex concepts and processes of the sciences; they must incorporate into

their program the processes that scientists use; and they must understand the

intricate role that science plays in our society. And there is even more. Science

teachers are also accountable for their students learning those same concepts,

processes, and interactions of science and society. The responsibility is great.

And, understandably, there are periods of doubt, vulnerability, loneliness, and

anxiety about the significant trust society places in science teachers for the

education of its youth.

Science teachers also are the leaders for science education in their class-

rooms, schools, and communities. This is the nature of teaching and the require-

ments of education. Science teachers themselves say, “When I close my door,

I do as I know best in the classroom.” This statement belies the dual ideas of

responsibility and leadership. In the conduct of a lesson or a class period, science

teachers are generally alone and solely responsible for what students learn.

Definitions of
Leadership

Definitions of Leadership

Leadership is making things happen or not happen. Leadership is getting others to do what they ought to do, and like it. Leadership is making people think things are possible that they didn’t think were possible. Leadership is getting people to be better than they think they are or can be. Leadership is inspiring hope and confidence in others to accomplish purposes they think are impossible. Leadership is perceiving what is needed and right and knowing how to mobilize people and resources to accomplish these goals. Leadership is creating options and opportunities, clarifying problems and choices, building morale and coalitions, and providing a vision and possibilities of something better than currently exists. Leadership is empowering and liberating people to become leaders in their own right.