On the basis of pre-release reports, the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) today welcomed the inclusion in the draft national science curriculum of the topic Science and Culture which is said to examine different cultural groups and their perspective on science, but expected that this would include Judeo-Christian perspectives.

“It’s fine to study the Dreamtime and Chinese medicine as part of ‘science as a human endeavour’, and this also provides an opportunity for European children in state or public schools to learn more of their own cultural heritage,” ACL Managing Director Jim Wallace said.

“For instance, if Dreamtime stories about the world’s origins are to be included, then children should also discuss the Bible story of creation.

“It would be strange to include the Dreamtime and omit stories from one of the greatest texts of Western Civilisation.”

Mr Wallace said there are clear educational benefits in having a national set of agreed standards for education and the ACL welcomed the release of the draft curriculums in science, mathematics, history and English.

“We will be looking carefully at the draft curriculums and hope there will be a genuine consultation process which will see the best possible national curriculums developed for our children,” Mr Wallace said.

Media Contact: Glynis Quinlan on 0408 875 979.

Australian Christian Lobby
Canberra, Australia

Tel: (02) 6259 0431

Fax: (02) 6259 0462

Mob: 0448 602 878

www.acl.org.au