Our technological, information-rich society thrives because of scientific thinking. However, a comprehensive theory of the development of scientific thinking remains elusive. Building on previous theoretical and empirical work in conceptual change, the role of credibility and plausibility in evaluating scientific evidence and claims, science engagement, active learning in STEM education, and the development of empirical thinking, we chart a pathway toward a comprehensive theory of the development of scientific thinking as an example of theory building in action. We detail the structural similarity and progressive transformation of our models and perspectives, highlighting factors for incorporation into a novel theory. This theory will focus on beneficial outcomes of a more collaborative scientific community and increasing scientific literacy through deeper science understanding for all people.

我们的技术、信息丰富的社会因科学思维而蓬勃发展。然而，科学思维发展的综合理论仍然难以实现。基于之前在概念转变、可信度和合理性在评估科学证据和主张中的作用、科学参与、STEM 教育中的主动学习以及实证思维的发展方面的理论和实证工作，我们绘制了一条通向综合理论的道路。科学思维的发展作为实践中理论建设的一个例子。我们详细介绍了我们的模型和观点的结构相似性和渐进转变，强调了纳入新颖理论的因素。该理论将侧重于更加协作的科学界的有益成果，并通过对所有人进行更深入的科学理解来提高科学素养。