The Level of Scientific Literacy in a Sample of Pre-Tertiary Education Students in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This study treats the topic of scientific literacy in its broad context; in this vein, the researcher has outlined the concept of science literacy and the necessity of using the approach in science education programmes with occasional references to the American experience in this context. The paper reviews the documents and standards meted out to form the framework for using science literacy in science education programmes from preschool to university and adult education levels. It also has identified the different perspectives of science literacy and the levels of science literacy in science education reforms with highlights on the characteristics of scientifically literate citizens. Highlights of the paper include how science literacy could function as the basis for reorienting science education curriculum so that science literacy objectives may be achieved in formal schooling. The paper reports on a questionnaire study done on a sample of pre-tertiary education students in Saudi Arabia to check their scientific literacy level. The study noted that females outstripped males in their levels of scientific literacy and the students of science outperformed the students of arts. Implications of the results and suggestions for further research have been included.