The Nature of Science in Science Education: Content Analysis of 8th Grade Science Textbook

In spite of the importance of the nature of science (NOS) as a principal goal of science education، students do not have an authentic view of NOS. Mostly، science textbooks and teachers’ emphasis are on memorizing scientific facts. Due to the teachers’ dependence on textbooks in teaching science، it is essential that these learning materials represent an accurate view of the nature of science. So NOS should be included throughout the content of science textbooks. This study conducted in order to analyzing the content of 8th grade science textbook for determining the inclusion of different aspects of the nature of science. The conceptual framework for content analysis was used in 4 aspects: a) science as a body of knowledge، b) science as a way of investigating، c) science as a way of thinking، and d) science and it''s interactions with technology and society. The results indicate science textbook has not completely and adequately addressed the categories and elements of the the nature of science. The textbook emphasizes on science as a «body of knowledge” (41%)، “investigative nature of science” (39%)، “a way of thinking” (10%) and “interaction of science، technology، and society (STS)” about 10% respectively. Findings show students meet science as a body of knowledge more than other categories. So it is expected that students can not think in good manner creatively and with appropriate interactions with technology and society.