Argumentation in classroom and its metacognitive potential as a way to an STS approach to teaching chemistry: an analytical proposal

Abstract

The teaching of chemistry is often guided by the use of formulae and schemes, given the nature of the symbols pervading this discipline. In this scenario, few studies deal with aspects associated with the process of reflection involving themes of exact sciences. Thus, being part of the education of critical, reflective individuals with regard to knowledge, to themselves and the social and natural environment they live in has been a concern of educators and psychologists and is in the basis of the STS (Science, Technology and Society) movement. Building on the metacognitive potential of argumentation in education, this study widens this discussion by investigating whether the use of this type of discourse allows students to reflect about their own thoughts, showing a functioning at the metacognitive level that is necessary to an STS approach in classroom. We analyzed the texts written by three students in chemistry classes in secondary education during which they were required to express their opinion on the question “Radiation: life or death?”, after debates had been conducted about this subject. Our analyses showed that argumentation, due to its peculiar discursive organization, is an interesting alternative to promote the emergence of sophisticated forms of thought, such as the ones that define critical and reflective thinking.