Using science fiction and fantasy texts to teach thinking skills and philosophy in primary and secondary schools

Current trends in education, coming out of Harvard University’s Project Zero, emphasise the importance of ‘visible thinking’ routines and practices. Alongside this is a growing push for the formal teaching of philosophy at all school levels, incorporating Communities of Inquiry and central philosophical concepts. Susan Ackermann and Gina Goddard will look at how science fiction and fantasy texts can be used to explore the nature of reality, ethical decision making and how to lead a good life. Texts to be discussed include The Bunyip of Berkeley’s Creek by Jenny Wagner and Ron Brooks and ‘The Cold Equations’ by Tom Godwin.