Date of Award

Spring 4-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Classical Studies

Thesis Advisor

Dr. Anita Simpkins

Committee Professor

Dr. Aimee Franklin

Abstract

Abstract

SCIENCE EDUCATION IN THE MODERN WORLD: A COMPARISON OF THE CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN AND STEM MODELS OF EDUCATION

Diane R. Gray

Southeastern University

As a classical Christian educator and leader and a former professional scientist, this author has fielded questions and concerns from parents who have wondered if classical Christian education (CCE) will provide strong instruction in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Because parents have expressed concerns about science and math education, and with the growing renewal of classical Christian education, the question addressed in this expository research project is ‘How do the CCE and STEM models of education compare?’ Information from government reports, academic literature, assessment statistics, market analyses, and education websites about CCE and STEM education was collected and compared. A noticeable gap exists in the academic, peer-reviewed literature on the implementation and assessment of CCE, especially in STEM fields. Also, there are very few statistics related to workers in STEM-related fields who are CCE or liberal arts graduates. Overall, the comparative research results revealed both models’ dominant histories, philosophies, goals, practices, strengths, benefits, and concerns. The choices parents ultimately make for their children’s education depend upon their responses to these fundamental questions: What is the purpose of education? What is the nature of a student? What are parents’ educational and lifelong desires for their children?

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