Shining lights

By 2016-11-07T00:00:00

Ei c616 editorial shining lights

Science is a torch we use to light our universe. We shouldn't put limits on where we point it

I was delighted at the news that this year's Nobel prize for chemistry has been awarded for the development of molecular machines. The whole field is a fascinating example of how understanding the behaviour of atoms and molecules can lead to incredible accomplishments. But I was also surprised at the award. You see, we don't need molecular machines for anything. In the development of this area of chemistry lies a vital feature of science: we push the boundaries to learn more and reach higher not because we need to, but because we can.

Paul MacLellan discusses how this contrasts education research, where smart educators and researchers push the boundaries not because they can, but because we need them to.

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