Content is
embedded in culture and it is
difficult to separate the two. When
presented with information in the
classroom that contradicts existing
ideas, a student may try to accom-
modate both interpretations, rather
than change deeply held beliefs.
Unless the teacher realizes what
views the students hold, classroom
teaching can actually help students
construct faulty ideas.
If the classroom can provide
a neutral zone where students
exchange their personal views
and test them against the ideas of
others, each student can continue
to build understanding based
on empirical evidence. Hands-on
activities and observations of
the natural world provide shared