Binns named to inaugural class of Sound Science Fellows

The National Center for Science Education (NCSE) recently announced its inaugural class of Sound Science Fellows, a cohort of scholars and researchers dedicated to “addressing the ongoing challenges faced by teachers as they navigate issues such as scientific misinformation, evolving educational standards, and societal resistance to critical scientific topics.” Among the seven in this groundbreaking class is Dr. Ian Binns, Associate Professor of Elementary Science Education in Cato College’s Reading and Elementary Education Department.

Binns has long held a passion for scientific truth, having centered his Ph.D. work on defining what science is and isn’t. His research over the years has explored the intersection and overlap of science and religion, specifically gauging how preservice elementary teachers’ scientific literacy and faith-based beliefs influence their perceptions of how socio-scientific issues, such as evolution, creationism, and intelligent design, should be addressed in the classroom.

He has also been an early alarm-raiser for the science education community to make his peers more aware of attempts to undermine science instruction, so he was a natural choice for NCSE. Fellows were selected based on:

• dedication to science education and science teacher education
• proven ability to engage critically in research and teaching spaces
• commitment to upholding the highest standards of scientific accuracy

“These educators are at the forefront of ensuring that future generations are equipped to understand and engage with the most important scientific issues of our time,” NCSE Executive Director Amanda L. Townley said.

As part of the fellowship, each fellow will work closely with experts in the fields of evolutionary biology or climate science as well as pedagogy to develop our understanding of best practices in education and emerging challenges, while also contributing to ongoing efforts to improve science education nationwide.

Binns will serve a term of two years and will have opportunities to work on individual and collaborative projects, attend seminars with scientists and education leaders, and contribute to NCSE’s broader mission to promote and defend high-quality science education across the nation.