Comparing desired behaviors of middle school students described in the science curriculum of BECC (Thailand) with those of CSMS (Japan)

Abstract

This study compared the desired behaviors of middle school students described in the science section of the Basic Education Core Curriculum(BECC, Thailand) with those of Corse of Study for Middle School(CSMS, Japan). Both countries place importance on conducting a scientific inquiry by middle school students as much as understanding scientific knowledge. In addition, Japanese science education focuses on the students acquiring scientific ways of looking at and thinking and obtaining skills for observation and experimentation. In contrast, Thai science education emphasizes the students showing various scientific attitudes(morals) and applying science in life as much as conducting scientific processes and transferring research outcomes.