CREATIONIST THREATS TO EARTH SCIENCE EDUCATION

Although the biological sciences have long been a prime target for creationism, the earth sciences also come under attack from anti-science forces, particularly when topics such as the fossil record, the age of the earth/universe, and climate change are part of the classroom curriculum. K-12 earth science teachers have encountered pressure from parents, students, and even administrators, to minimize or eliminate socially controversial science content in classes. When teachers face such challenges, one tempting--yet mistaken--remedy is to “balance” the science with non-scientific materials in the name of fairness. Another mistaken solution is to avoid topics likely to cause controversy. Both actions work to the detriment of every student’s education. This talk suggests ways to counter these problems and to maintain the best science possible in an environment of hostility towards science.