Naturforståelse

Naturforståelse is a term used in Danish and Norwegian contexts to describe understanding of nature and natural phenomena. It encompasses knowledge from biology, physics, chemistry and earth sciences and emphasizes the ability to explain and reason about the natural world, as well as to evaluate evidence and make informed decisions.

In education, naturforståelse aims to develop scientific literacy rather than mere memorization of facts. It prioritizes inquiry, observation, data interpretation, modeling, and clear communication. Learning is often organized around investigating real-world questions, using experiments, fieldwork, simulations and digital tools, and connecting natural phenomena to environmental and societal contexts.

The concept also engages with how people relate to the environment, including sustainability, climate change, biodiversity and human impact. It supports the development of critical thinking about scientific information, uncertainty, and the limits of current knowledge.

Some discussions around naturforståelse focus on how to balance disciplinary content with holistic inquiry, how to integrate socioscientific issues, and how to adapt teaching to diverse learners. The goal is to enable individuals to understand natural processes, assess evidence, and participate responsibly in debates about nature and technology.

Related topics include science literacy, inquiry-based learning, the nature of science, and environmental education.