Chapter 5: Robert E. Yager: Science/Technology/Society (STS) Proponent

Dr. Robert E. Yager’s influence on the use of social issues in science education has extended throughout the United States and to the far reaches of the world. This lifelong resident of small town Iowa is truly a legend in his own time. Although he was not the first science educator to use social issues in teaching science, he has been the most prolific author in science education introducing social issues under the label “science/technology/society interaction” (STS). He is a relentless STS activist, and doctoral advisor of over 100 doctoral degrees, which has resulted in initiating a long STS lineage in the science education enterprise. His consistent message has been that science teaching needed, and still needs, to provide active constructivist learning opportunities that make learning about science attractive, relevant, meaningful, effective, and long lasting for learners in K-12.