Science Textbooks and Scientific Literacy- A Comparative Study of India and Nigeria

This study compares secondary science textbooks of India with secondary science textbooks of Nigeria to know how science textbooks foster scientific literacy in students through textbooks as a medium.Using Wilkinson's framework, the research evaluates textbooks based on scientific concepts, critical thinking skills, and the application of scientific knowledge.The findings show that while both textbooks emphasize scientific concepts, Indian textbooks follow a stronger inquiry-based approach and apply scientific knowledge more effectively.The examples in both textbooks are relevant and contextualized.Indian textbooks feature more visually engaging images, while Nigerian textbooks use images that are more relatable to students' everyday experiences.Interdisciplinary aspects are more in the Indian textbooks.The findings underscore the need for textbooks to go beyond simple explanations of scientific concepts and incorporate argumentative texts and interdisciplinary connections, which foster deeper understanding and analytical skills.By adopting a more holistic approach to content and pedagogy, science textbooks can better prepare students to think critically about scientific issues and develop the skills necessary for lifelong scientific literacy.