Looking at Science through the Lens of Diversity: Views of Indian Students and Teachers

The study examined middle school students' and science teachers' ideas on science and diversity parameters like religion. 1522 students from Mumbai completed a survey designed to elicit their perceptions of science, religion and learning experiences. Of these, more than a hundred students were interviewed and it was found that there was a demarcation between students' scientific and religious beliefs. Questionnaires were administered to 48 teachers and 11 teachers were interviewed who gave responses regarding their religious stance, classroom experiences and views on handling conflicts between science and religion. Results indicated that most teachers did not face problems with religious beliefs interfering with the subject matter and its transaction.