Nikola Tesla in science textbooks
Session Type
Presentation
Room
Physics and Astronomy, room 117
Start Date
16-7-2025 4:30 PM
End Date
16-7-2025 5:00 PM
Keywords
Science, education, history, Tesla, textbooks
Primary Threads
Teaching and Learning Science
Abstract
Nikola Tesla is considered one of the greatest inventors in modern history, being called “the man who invented the 20th century”. He was historically recognized by the naming of the magnetic field unit “tesla”, which is one of only 19 units named after scientists in the International System of Units (SI). Science textbooks mention a number of scientists when their work is related to a given topic and frequently include a biographical note with a photo. Tesla’s name is often said to have been forgotten in time. The lack of awareness of the significance of his work can be attributed to the apparent under representation of his accomplishments in educational resources. Conveying an accurate narrative of the evolution of scientific ideas developed by scientists should allow young generations to better understand the scientific process and motivate future scientists. In this work, we discuss the importance of the portrayal of historical figures in science textbooks, using Nikola Tesla as a case study among prominent scientists in textbooks spanning the Canadian education system (K-12 and university levels). The analysis reveals significant variations in representations based on textbook levels. There are also differences found among individual scientists, with some receiving significant coverage, while others appear to be under-represented. We hope that this project will motivate similar research, applying our methodologies to further the inclusion of other under-recognized scientists, for example, women or Indigenous scholars, and enhance the potential and benefits of more diverse science education.
Elements of Engagement
Elements of engagement will be a discussion with participants about the value of including history in teaching and learning science. The discussion will be included in the session following the presentation prompted by a number of thought-provoking questions to participants. Participants will be asked to break out into small groups (including remote participants) to discuss their answers to the questions together before wrapping up with a summary of ideas of the entire group.
Nikola Tesla in science textbooks
Physics and Astronomy, room 117
Nikola Tesla is considered one of the greatest inventors in modern history, being called “the man who invented the 20th century”. He was historically recognized by the naming of the magnetic field unit “tesla”, which is one of only 19 units named after scientists in the International System of Units (SI). Science textbooks mention a number of scientists when their work is related to a given topic and frequently include a biographical note with a photo. Tesla’s name is often said to have been forgotten in time. The lack of awareness of the significance of his work can be attributed to the apparent under representation of his accomplishments in educational resources. Conveying an accurate narrative of the evolution of scientific ideas developed by scientists should allow young generations to better understand the scientific process and motivate future scientists. In this work, we discuss the importance of the portrayal of historical figures in science textbooks, using Nikola Tesla as a case study among prominent scientists in textbooks spanning the Canadian education system (K-12 and university levels). The analysis reveals significant variations in representations based on textbook levels. There are also differences found among individual scientists, with some receiving significant coverage, while others appear to be under-represented. We hope that this project will motivate similar research, applying our methodologies to further the inclusion of other under-recognized scientists, for example, women or Indigenous scholars, and enhance the potential and benefits of more diverse science education.