[phaster]

"Miseducation: How Climate Change Is Taught in America" by Katie Worth is an investigative exposé revealing how climate change education in the United States is systematically undermined and distorted. Worth's research, which included reviewing textbooks, analyzing state standards, and interviewing students and teachers across the country, uncovers a significant "red-blue divide" in what children learn about climate change.

Key findings of the book include:

Widespread misinformation and denial: A significant portion of young adults in the U.S. believe climate change is not man-made, a misconception often reinforced by what they are taught in school. Science instructors may find their teachings contradicted by other teachers, and in some cases, outright denial is presented to students.

Influence of special interests: Worth connects the dots between oil corporations, conservative think tanks, lobbyists, state legislatures, and textbook publishers, showing how these entities have actively worked to sow uncertainty, confusion, and distrust about climate science in classrooms. This strategy mirrors tactics previously used by the tobacco industry to delay public understanding of health risks.

Political polarization as a barrier: The book highlights how the politicization of climate change directly impacts educational content. What students learn often depends more on the political leanings of their state legislature than on scientific consensus. Some states have even seen legislation proposed to remove climate change material from curricula.

Watered-down standards and textbooks: Textbook companies, aiming for broad market appeal (especially in large states like Texas that dictate significant purchasing trends), often dilute or omit accurate information about climate change. State science standards can also be intentionally vague or weak, allowing for incomplete or misleading instruction.

Lack of teacher support and resources: Many teachers feel unprepared or unsupported in teaching climate change, lacking access to quality materials, professional development, and a clear, unified curriculum. This often leaves climate education to individual teachers' discretion and personal beliefs.

Consequences for future generations: The book argues that this "miseducation" leaves American students ill-equipped to understand and address the most significant challenge of their lifetime, impacting their preparedness for future employment and civic engagement in a world increasingly shaped by climate change.

While exposing these alarming realities, Worth also highlights efforts by dedicated educators who strive to provide accurate climate education despite the systemic challenges, offering a glimmer of hope for improvement.

https://youtu.be/WirRe_wxTCM

https://youtu.be/p_7h0SYcWSM

https://youtu.be/vvLheMX8QHU

[theluckycountry]

$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('phaster', '.')..showing how these entities have actively worked to sow uncertainty, confusion, and distrust about climate science in classrooms. This strategy mirrors tactics previously used by the tobacco industry to delay public understanding of health risks.