Science theatre in teaching and popularizing the history of chemistry: The case of a theatrical play on Nobel-laureate A.I. Virtanen

Abstract

The article discusses the significance of science theatre and the role of nature of science in it, as well as the significance of history of chemistry, and different methods for popularizing it and using it in teaching. The study includes two surveys (N=45 and N=126) conducted among the audiences of “Virtanen!” play, performed in 2011. The data was analyzed using content analysis. Based on the results, the history of science was mainly portrayed through the life of the protagonist of the play, and the play showed the human side of science to the audience. In addition, from the viewpoint of nature of science, the play emphasized the role of social interaction in science as well as the interaction between science and the society. According to the audiences, national expertise in chemistry should be emphasized more in order to increase interest towards the subject and also to promote national self-esteem. It was suggested that history of chemistry should be presented through different methods, such as science theater, school teaching, exhibitions, and documentary films, in future. Also, it was hoped that history would be included in chemistry teaching together with other chemistry contents, through historical portraits of scientists, in collaboration with other school subjects or as a separate lesson on history of science. Science theatre was found to be a good method to teach history of chemistry and nature of science, and to popularize chemistry.