Science as Argument and Argumentation

This course aims to guide learners to conceptualize science and scientific inquiry as a process of argumentative practice, including constructing and critiquing arguments. As stated in Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS Lead States, 2013), eight science and engineering practices, such as asking questions, planning and carrying out investigations, developing and using models, using mathematics and computational thinking, analyzing and interpreting data, constructing explanation, engaging in argument from evidence, obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information, describe what scientists do to explore the world around them and what engineers do to create design systems. Student engagement in the practice of argumentation is important so that they can understand the culture and communication of scientists and engineers in order to apply learnings from both branches to benefit their communities. Learners will focus on foundational concepts of learning and scientific inquiry, including how individuals process and differentiate claim, data, evidence and reasoning, as well as use those essential components of argument to engage in argumentative practice. This course will connect argumentation to the practice of modeling and provide some concrete examples from science classrooms to illustrate how modeling can be supported by argumentation.