The response of school science to the challenge of food production in the 21st century

Abstract

The nature of food production has changed in the 21st century. This is the consequence of changing eating habits due to globalization and urbanization, as well as the effects of climate change such as variable rainfall, fluctuations in temperature, and so on. In this article both the pressures that demand and supply exercise on food security are discussed, as well as what exactly might be necessary to ensure food security. Furthermore, the role that education could play in meeting the challenges of food security is explored by examining the extent to which the CAPS for Life Sciences in South Africa provide opportunities for learners to be educated to cope with future challenges related to food production. The exploration finds that food security is included as a theme in CAPS for Life Sciences and that opportunities are therefore provided for learners to be educated about the challenges related to food production and supply. But, the article also raises concern about the limits that a prescriptive, content-based and test-driven curriculum might have on the quality of the learning experience with respect to the food production, supply and security.