The nature of science is both empirically and socially constructed. The former is daunting enough to teach and learn for middle school students. The latter seems to be beyond the do-able at this level. However, we have been engaged in a study over the past four years exploring how both of these aspects of science can be taught and learned by middle school students. Under the title Sensational Student Science Simulations we have had eighth grade students at the Baker Demonstration School of National-Louis University designing, implementing, and publishing chemistry and physics experiments.
Students choose an interesting question or topic in chemistry or physics to investigate.
The students provide a simulation of the actual investigation, include all the appropriate background scientific information, and introduce the essential scientific process and concept that this investigation demonstrates. In the community of scientists, the audience is those involved in similar areas of research. In the community of middle school students, the audience is other students in the school and people on the internet. This project helps instill in the students a sense of the possibilities inherent in science and technology and helps to develop the skills and interest in learning they will need to continue through life as seekers of knowledge. This combination encourages both exploration for the sake of knowledge and the sharing of that knowledge with others.